What is a Ghost Immobiliser?
The risk of security systems in cars being hacked by thieves is real, but the use of modern anti-jamming technology and a vigilant surveillance can lessen the chance of this happening. Ghost immobilisers such as the CAN Phantom or the Autowatch Ghost are hidden within the vehicle and cannot be detected by diagnostic scanners. They communicate using buttons located on the central console and doors.
What is a ghost immobiliser?
Ghost immobilisers are modern security system that is that is designed to deter theft of cars. Its design is subtle and it is difficult to hack, which makes it a powerful deterrent to determined thieves.
The system is connected to the CAN data bus in your vehicle and programmed by your unique PIN code. The system then blocks your vehicles ignition until a set of buttons are pressed. This ensures that the vehicle can't be started without your knowledge.
This kind of system is particularly effective against modern technologically-savvy thieves. Although they might be able to duplicate keys or take your vehicle using a relay attack but there's no way to bypass an immobiliser that is ghostly.
There are a few different kinds of ghost immobilisers on the market, including CAN Phantom and Autowatch Ghost. Both systems are highly recommended, since they're both TASSA verified and provide unrivalled protection against relay and key cloning attacks.
A ghost immobiliser does not emit radio signals, in contrast to traditional alarm systems. This means it's almost impossible to detect with standard diagnostic tools, such as OBD scanners. Ghost immobilisers are harder to hack and disable since it doesn't use radio signals.
Ghost immobilisers can be used in combination with other security systems, such as GPS tracking devices as well as physical locks. By adding multiple layers of security, it will increase the difficulty for thieves to steal your vehicle, and could ultimately lead to them being caught and detained.
Even the best-equipped thieves still find ways to bypass security systems. Some thieves employ jamming equipment to block the signal sent between an immobiliser ghost and your vehicle's ECU. Some thieves employ a technique known as "spoofing" which is the process of sending fake messages to the immobiliser to try to fool it. These methods are not just expensive for thieves, but also can cause serious damage to your vehicle. By being vigilant and regularly updating your security systems, you will drastically reduce the risk of your vehicle being stolen.
How Does a Ghost Immobiliser Function?
An immobiliser is one of the most effective car security measures you can purchase. It can deter thieves and assist in recovering your car that was stolen. However, determined criminals will discover ways to circumvent even the most secure systems. This is why it's crucial to employ multiple security measures and update them regularly.
This is especially applicable to high-end cars, like Porsches and Mercedes-Benzes that are often targeted by thieves due to their high value. A ghost immobiliser is an ingenuous and effective method to make it harder for thieves to get access to your car, and it's an excellent choice to add to other forms of security, such as an alarm system or GPS tracking devices.
The Autowatch Ghost is a discreet immobiliser that does not require any new LED indicators or keypads. It connects with your car's CAN system (Controller Area Network), and is programmed to a unique pin code that you select. This is entered via buttons on the steering wheel or on the center console. You can choose any combination of up to 20 characters for an extra level of security. The Autowatch Ghost is TASSA-certified which means that it has been acknowledged by official organizations and insurance companies.
Ghost immobilisers can be switched off and on when you have to take your car to the shop for repairs or maintenance. This makes them a valuable option for those who use their cars frequently. They are not a substitute for a keyfob, and should only be used with one.
The threat of vehicle theft has grown more sophisticated, a lot of car owners are looking for more advanced anti-theft options to safeguard their automobiles. While an immobiliser used to be sufficient to prevent hotwiring, today's sophisticated thieves are using new tactics such as relay car theft. Many car owners have scoured ghost immobilisers to secure their vehicles. However the thieves have always found ways to circumvent them.
How can what is a ghost immobiliser be repelled?
Ghost immobilisers are among the most effective ways to secure your vehicle from theft. They are designed to work with a wide range of vehicles and are easily installed by a certified fitter, making it easy for you to enjoy additional peace of mind when driving your most prized possession.
Ghost immobilisers, unlike other systems that operate through transponders or keys fobs are a hidden, quiet system that works through the CAN bus within your vehicle. They can be installed without modifying any of the original components, or rewiring any wires. They are the best option for car owners who wish to keep their vehicle looking great while adding an extra layer of safety.
If properly installed, a ghost immobiliser can be virtually impossible to disable. The reason for this is that they require an individual code that can only be activated by pressing various combinations of buttons on the vehicle. The code can be modified by the vehicle owner, which ensures that only the driver is aware of how to turn on the device. In turn, the likelihood of stealing the vehicle are drastically diminished.
However, despite being one of the most effective methods of vehicle security however, there are a few ways that it can be hacked. In certain instances, there could be issues with the stop/start feature of the ghost immobiliser. This can often be attributed to an incorrect set-up of the system, but occasionally, it could be due to other factors outside of of the system's control.
Another way that a ghost immobiliser could be bypassed is by using a mobile app to disarm the device. However, it's important to keep in mind that this method can only be used when the device is within Bluetooth range and when the smartphone is authorised by the owner of the vehicle. It's important to keep in mind that these apps are vulnerable to issues such as connectivity issues and malfunctioning, which can lead to the disarming process not functioning properly.
With so many car criminals becoming more sophisticated, it's vital for car owners to invest in a high-end security system. Ghost immobilisers are a discrete and powerful option that can deter even the most seasoned criminals by stopping them from starting your car.
Countermeasures
The ghost immobiliser is not detectable by thieves as it does not use radio signals or LED indicators, nor is it connected to the key fob. Instead, it connects directly to the engine control unit using CAN. This makes it tamper-proof and is impossible to remove or disable. It is also effective in defending against the most common methods of theft from cars like key-cloning.
The ghost immobiliser can't be detected by this method, since it doesn't require cutting of circuits. It doesn't depend on the car owner carrying their key fob with them to activate the system since it is activated by entering a unique pin code sequence that only the owner is aware of and can be changed at any time.
Another method for thieves to bypass the ghost immobiliser is by using a device known as"jammers". This is a device that could disrupt signals between your vehicle and the driver fob and allow them to start the engine. Advanced anti-jamming techniques and regular inspections for indications of tampering could aid in preventing this.
Ghost immobilisers can be a great way to stop vehicle theft. They can also be used in conjunction with a tracking device. However, it is essential to select a reputable provider and installer to ensure your device is installed correctly and compatible with your vehicle's electrical system. A TASSA-certified company is the best option to guarantee quality and safety.
Certain insurers offer discounts for vehicles with this kind of protection. Ask your insurance provider to see if this discount is offered. Also, think about other methods to increase the security of your car. You can take measures such as locking your keys and parking in well-lit areas. It is crucial to protect your investment and keep up using the most recent technology available to criminals.