What is a Ghost Immobiliser?
Thieves have been devising ways to get around security systems for cars, however advanced anti-jamming technology and vigilant monitoring can mitigate the threat. Ghost immobilisers such as the CAN Phantom or the Autowatch Ghost are hidden inside the vehicle and are not detected by diagnostic scanners. They communicate using buttons on the center console and the doors.
What is a Ghost Immobiliser?
Ghost immobilisers are state-of-the-art security system designed to stop car theft. Its subtle design and secure nature make it an effective security measure against apprehensive thieves.
The system is connected to the CAN data bus of your vehicle and programmed with your unique PIN code. The system will then block your vehicles ignition until a sequence of buttons are pressed. This ensures that the vehicle can't be started without your knowledge.
This type of system is particularly effective against modern tech-savvy thieves. There is no way to get around the ghost immobiliser. They could be able to duplicate your keys or even steal your car using a relay attack.
There are a variety of various ghost immobilisers available on the market. These include CAN Phantom and Autowatch Phantom. Both are highly recommended because they're TASSA-certified and provide unbeatable protection from key cloning attacks as well as relay attacks.
Ghost immobilisers don't emit radio signals, in contrast to traditional alarm systems. This means it's almost impossible to detect using common diagnostic tools, such as OBD scanners. A ghost immobiliser is harder to hack and disable because it doesn't use radio signals.
A ghost immobiliser can be utilized in combination with other security systems, like GPS tracking devices and physical locks. Multiple layers of security can make it more difficult for thieves to rob a vehicle, and ultimately lead to their arrest.
Even the most well-equipped thieves can have ways to get around security systems. Some thieves employ jamming devices to block the signal that is sent between a ghost immobiliser, 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 attempt to fool it. These techniques aren't just expensive for thieves but also can cause serious damage to your vehicle. You can lessen the risk of theft by updating your security system frequently and staying alert.
How Does a Ghost Immobiliser Function?
An immobiliser is one of the most effective security measures you can invest in. It can deter thieves, and assist in recovering your car that was stolen. But determined thieves will find a way to bypass even the best security systems. That's why it's important to use multiple security measures and to update them frequently.
This is particularly applicable to high-end cars, such as Porsches and Mercedes-Benzes that are often targeted by thieves due to their value. Ghost immobilisers can be an inconspicuous and effective way to make it harder for thieves to steal your vehicle. It's an excellent addition to other security measures, including GPS tracking devices or alarm systems.
The Autowatch Ghost immobiliser doesn't require a brand new keypad or any LED indicators, and is undetectable to a thief. It connects with your car's CAN system (Controller Area Network) and is programmed to a specific pin code that you select. It's entered by using buttons on the steering wheel or in the center console. You can select an array of up 20 characters to provide an extra level of security. The Autowatch Ghost has been TASSA-verified which means that it has been acknowledged by official organizations and insurance companies.
Ghost immobilisers are also simple to turn off and on again when you need to take your car to the mechanic for repairs or maintenance This makes them a valuable asset for people who frequently drive their cars. However, they're not a substitute for a keyfob and are only to be used combination with one.
As the threat of vehicle theft has become more sophisticated, a lot of car owners are looking for more sophisticated anti-theft strategies to secure their vehicles. While immobilisers were once sufficient to stop hotwiring, more tech-savvy thieves are utilizing new methods such as relay car theft. Many owners of cars have sought out ghost immobilisers to secure their automobiles. However, thieves have always found ways to get around them.
How can a Ghost Immobiliser be bypassed?
Ghost immobilisers can be an extremely effective method to protect your vehicle against theft. They are designed to be compatible with a range of vehicles and are easily installed by an approved fitter, making it easy for you to enjoy added security while driving your prized possession.
Contrary to other systems that depend on transponders or key fobs ghost immobilisers are a discrete, invisible system that works through the CAN bus of your vehicle. This means that they can be put in place without having to modify any of the original components or rewire any wires. This makes them an ideal option for car owners who wish to add an extra layer of security to their car while keeping the vehicle looking its best.
Ghost immobilisers are almost impossible to bypass if installed correctly. The reason is that they require an unique code that must be activated by pressing various combinations of buttons on the vehicle. The code can be customized by the vehicle owner, which ensures that only the driver is aware of how to activate the device. The likelihood of a vehicle being stolen are greatly decreased.
Although it is one of the most effective forms of vehicle security available, there are a few ways it is able to be evaded. In certain instances, there could be issues with the stop/start feature of the ghost immobiliser. This is typically due to a wrong set-up, but it can also be caused by other causes.
Another method by which a ghost immobiliser can be avoided is by using a mobile app to disarm the device. This method is only effective in the event that the device is within Bluetooth range, and the smartphone is approved by the owner of the vehicle. It's also important to bear in mind that these apps are prone to issues such as connectivity issues and malfunctioning which could lead to the disarming process failing correctly.
It is crucial for car owners to invest into a high-quality security system, since car thieves are becoming more sophisticated. Ghost immobilisers are an obtrusive and powerful option that can help to deter even the most seasoned criminals by stopping them from starting your vehicle.
Countermeasures
The ghost immobiliser isn't detectable by thieves as it does not use LED indicators or radio signals, nor is it connected to the key fob. Instead, it is directly linked to the engine controller unit via CAN. This makes it tamper proof and impossible to take off or disable. like this helps protect against the most common methods of car theft, such as key cloning.
The gangs of organized car thieves typically use diagnostics reading devices to detect the circuit breaks caused by security systems, but the ghost immobiliser cannot to be detected using this method as it does not cause any circuit cuts. It doesn't depend on the owner of the vehicle having their key fob with them to activate the system since it is activated by entering the pin code in a unique sequence that only the owner is aware of and is able to change at anytime.
Another method used by thieves to get around the ghost immobiliser is making use of a device referred to as jammer. This is a device which can disrupt signals between your vehicle and the driver fob and allow them to start the engine. Modern anti-jamming technology and regular checks for signs of tampering may help prevent this.
Ghost immobilisers are a fantastic method to stop theft of vehicles and can be used in conjunction with an electronic tracking system. However, it is crucial to choose a reliable supplier and installer to ensure the device is properly installed and compatible with the electrical system of your vehicle. A TASSA-certified business is the best option to ensure safety and quality.
Some insurance companies offer discounts to vehicles that are covered by this type of security. It's worth talking to your insurer to see whether they offer this discount, as well as exploring other ways to improve the overall security of your vehicle. These can include securing your keys, parking in well-lit areas and taking other precautionary measures. With the latest technology becoming more accessible to thieves, it's crucial to be vigilant and protect your investment.