If you toss your car keys on a table or a hook near the door, you might want to rethink that. That’s because thieves are most likely to look for them there. It doesn’t matter if it’s a traditional car key or a key fob. Thieves understand human nature and are aware of our tendencies to do the convenient thing.
Frustrate them by finding more creative storage methods. Especially for key fobs, as car thieves are becoming more inventive. Thieves are now committing “car burglaries”, where they enter your home specifically to steal your keys.
The technology underlying key fobs means they need your car keys to enter and start your car. This isn’t always the case though. They can also intercept the signal between your key fob and your car, mimic it and use it to steal your car right out of your driveway. This is called relay theft.
How do you prevent this?
Places to Leave Your Car Keys
If you have a pair of traditional keys, leave them on a nightstand near your bed. They should be away from the window. This is so thieves can’t reach in and grab them. Plus, they’ll be close by in case you need them in an emergency.
Do this with your key fob only if your bedroom is far away from your driveway or garage. Signals pass between your key fob and your car, even when they are apart. This can drain the batteries in both.
Another option for securing your key fob at home is placing it in a Faraday bag. It’s a flexible metal pouch that prevents car thieves’ devices from interacting with your key fob. Placing it in an aluminum box or can or a toolbox is also an option.
Some car owners leave their key fobs in their microwave or refrigerator. The metal exterior of the appliances blocks signals but precautions should be taken when leaving a metal object in a microwave.
The temperature of the refrigerator may damage the microchip in your key fob. Check with your car manufacturer to see if this can be done safely.
Need help with your keys?
Have further questions about how key fobs work and how to protect yourself against relay theft. Don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact us at 305-984-9922, or visit our website at https://www.quicklymiamilocksmith.com.
