What is a Ghost Immobiliser?
Thieves are constantly developing methods to evade security systems in cars, but modern anti-jamming technology and constant monitoring can mitigate these threats. Ghost immobilisers like the CAN Phantom and the Autowatch Ghost are hidden in the vehicle, undetectable by scanners that detect them, and rely on buttons on the center door or console to communicate, making them very difficult to break.
What is a ghost immobiliser?
A ghost immobiliser is a modern security device designed to deter theft of vehicles. Its design is subtle and it is hard to hack, making it a formidable deterrent to determined thieves.
The system is connected to the CAN data bus of your vehicle, and is programmed using your unique PIN number. The system will stop your vehicle's ignition until you press a series buttons, ensuring it can't start without you knowing.
This kind of system is especially effective against modern-day thieves. While they might be able to clone keys or take your vehicle using relay attacks however, there is no way to get around a ghost immobiliser.
There are a few different types of ghost immobilisers available on the market such as CAN Phantom and Autowatch Ghost. Both of these systems are highly recommended as they're both TASSA tested and offer unbeatable protection against key cloning and relay attacks.
A ghost immobiliser does not emit radio signals, in contrast to traditional alarm systems. This means that it's nearly impossible to detect with standard diagnostic tools such as OBD scanners. The fact that a ghost immobiliser doesn't rely on any radio signals also makes it much harder to hack or disable.
A ghost immobiliser can be utilized in combination with other security devices, such as GPS tracking devices as well as physical locks. Multiple layers of security can make it harder for thieves to steal vehicles, and ultimately result in their arrest.
Even the most sophisticated thieves find ways to bypass security systems. For instance, some criminals use jamming devices to disrupt the signal between an immobiliser ghost and your vehicle's ECU. Other thieves have developed a technique called "spoofing," which involves sending fake signals to the immobiliser to try to fool it. These methods are not just costly for the thieves but can also cause severe damage to your vehicle. You can lessen the risk of theft by updating your security system regularly and staying alert.
How Does a Ghost Immobiliser Work?
An immobiliser is among the most effective security options you can put into. It can deter thieves and assist in recovering your car that was stolen. But determined thieves will find ways to bypass even the best security systems. This is why it's crucial to employ multiple security measures and to update them frequently.
This is especially relevant to luxury cars such as Porsches or Mercedes-Benzes. These vehicles are often targeted by thieves because of their value. A ghost immobiliser can be a subtle, yet effective way to make it more difficult 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 new keypad or any LED indicators, and is not detectable by thieves. It connects to your vehicle's CAN system (Controller Area Network) and is programmed to a unique pin code you select. This is entered via buttons on the steering wheel or in the center console. You can select a sequence of up to 20 characters for an extra layer of security. The Autowatch Ghost is TASSA-certified, which means it is recognized by official companies as well as insurance companies.
Ghost immobilisers are also simple to turn off and on again when you want to take your vehicle to a repair or service they are a valuable asset for people who regularly drive their cars. They are not a substitute for a keyfob and is best used with one.
Many car owners are looking for a more sophisticated anti-theft system because the threat of vehicle theft is becoming more sophisticated. In ghost immobiliser tracker could have been enough to prevent hotwiring. However, more technologically-savvy criminals are now employing innovative strategies, such as relay car theft. This has prompted many car owners to search for ghost immobilisers to use as a method to protect their vehicles however, criminals are always looking for ways to bypass these systems.
How can Ghost Immobiliser be bypassed?
Ghost immobilisers are one of the most effective ways to safeguard your vehicle from theft. They are compatible with many vehicles and can be easily fitted by a certified fitter.
Unlike other systems that rely on transponders or key fobs to operate, ghost immobilisers are a silent, hidden system that operates through the CAN bus of your vehicle. They can be installed without altering the original components or changing any wires. This makes them a good choice for those who want to add a layer of security to their car while still keeping the car looking its best.
If properly installed, a ghost immobiliser can be nearly impossible to bypass. The reason is that they require a unique code that is only entered by pressing different combinations of buttons on the vehicle. The owner of the vehicle can alter the code, making sure that only the driver knows the best way to activate it. The chances of the vehicle being stolen are greatly decreased.
Although it is one of the most effective forms of vehicle security, there are a few ways that it is able to be evaded. In certain instances, there could be problems with the stop/start function of the ghost immobiliser. This is usually caused by a bad configuration, but it can be caused by other reasons.
Another method by which a ghost immobiliser can be avoided is by using an app on mobile devices to disable the device. It is important to keep in mind that this method can only be used when the device is in Bluetooth range and when the smartphone is authorized by the owner of the vehicle. It's also important to bear in mind that these apps are susceptible to issues such as connectivity issues and malfunctioning operation that could result in the disarming process failing correctly.
With so many car criminals becoming more sophisticated, it's vital for car owners to invest in a high-quality security solution. Ghost immobilisers are a discrete effective and reliable solution that can dissuade even the most experienced criminals by stopping them from starting your vehicle.
Countermeasures
A ghost immobiliser is undetectable to thieves because it doesn't use LED indications or radio signals or connect 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 also helps in protecting against the most common vehicle theft techniques such as key-cloning.
The ghost immobiliser can't be detected by this method, since it does no involve circuit cuts. The system doesn't require the owner of the vehicle to have their key fob with their vehicle to activate it. It is activated by entering a unique code that only the owner knows and can change at any time.
Another way thieves try to circumvent 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, allowing them to start the engine. However, advanced anti-jamming technology can stop this, as well as regularly checking for indications of tampering.
Ghost immobilisers are an excellent method to stop theft of vehicles and can be used combination with a tracking system. However, it is essential to select a reputable provider and installer to ensure that the device is properly installed and compatible with the electrical system of your vehicle. A TASSA-certified company is the best choice to guarantee quality and safety.
A ghost immobiliser fitted to your vehicle could help you reduce your insurance premiums, since some insurance companies offer discounts for vehicles that have this type of protection. Check with your insurer if this discount is available. Also, think about other ways to improve the security of your car. You can take steps like locking your keys and parking in well-lit areas. With the latest technology being made available to thieves, it's essential to be aware and protect your investment.