What is a Ghost Immobiliser?
Thieves have been devising methods to evade car security systems, but advanced anti-jamming technology as well as vigilant monitoring can mitigate these risks. Ghost immobilisers, such as the CAN Phantom and the Autowatch Ghost are hidden inside the vehicle, undetectable by scanners that detect them, and rely on buttons on the centre console or doors to communicate, making them extremely difficult to break.
What is a ghost immobiliser?
A ghost immobiliser is a modern security device designed to stop car theft. Its secluded design and difficult-to-hack nature make it a powerful deterrent against determined thieves.
The system is connected to the CAN data bus of your vehicle and is programmed by your unique PIN code. The system will then stop your vehicle's 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 especially effective against modern tech-savvy thieves. There is no way to get around the ghost immobiliser. They might be able to duplicate your keys or even take your car away using a relay attack.
There are many different ghost immobilisers on the market. These include CAN Phantom and Autowatch Phantom. Both systems are highly recommended as they're TASSA-verified and offer unrivalled protection against key cloning attacks as well as relay attacks.
Unlike traditional alarm systems, ghost immobilisers don't send any radio signals. This means that it's nearly impossible to detect with common diagnostic tools such as OBD scanners. Ghost immobilisers are harder to hack and disable since it doesn't use radio signals.
A ghost immobiliser can be utilized in conjunction with other advanced security systems, such as GPS tracking devices as well as physical locks. Adding multiple layers of security will increase the difficulty for thieves to steal your vehicle and could eventually lead to them being caught and detained.
Unfortunately, even the best-equipped thieves are still finding ways to circumvent security systems. For instance, some thieves employ jamming devices in order to disrupt the signal that is sent between an immobiliser ghost and your vehicle's ECU. Some thieves employ a method known as "spoofing" which involves sending fake messages to the immobiliser to try to fool it. These methods are not just costly for the thieves but can also cause significant damage to your vehicle. By being vigilant and regularly updating your security systems, you will significantly reduce the risk of your vehicle being taken away.
How does a Ghost Immobiliser Work?
An immobiliser is one of the most effective security options you can put into. It prevents the vehicle from starting if an invalid code is entered along with the key fob. In addition, it can in preventing theft and restoring your vehicle when it is taken. However determined criminals will find ways to bypass even the best systems. It is important to upgrade your security measures on a regular basis and employ a variety of security techniques.
This is especially applicable to high-end cars, like Porsches and Mercedes-Benzes, that are frequently targeted by thieves due to their high value. Ghost immobilisers are an ingenuous and effective method to make it more difficult for thieves to start your vehicle. It's an excellent addition to other security measures, such as an alarm system or GPS tracking devices.
The Autowatch Ghost is a hidden immobiliser that doesn't require any new LED indicators or keypads. It connects to your vehicle's CAN system (Controller Area Network), and is programmed to a unique pin code that you choose. It's entered by through buttons on the steering wheel or center console. You can even choose an option that can use up to 20 characters, which provides you with a highly secure degree of protection. The Autowatch Ghost is TASSA-certified which means it's recognized by official companies as well as insurance companies.
Ghost immobilisers are easily turned off and switched on when you need to bring your vehicle to the shop for repairs or maintenance. This makes them a valuable option for those who use their cars regularly. They are not a replacement for a keyfob and should only be used with one.
Many car owners are looking for advanced anti-theft protection since the threat of theft from vehicles is becoming more sophisticated. While an immobiliser was once sufficient to stop hotwiring, today's sophisticated thieves are using new tactics like relay car theft. Many car owners have scoured ghost immobilisers to secure their vehicles. However the thieves have always found ways around them.
How can a Ghost Immobiliser be avoided?
Ghost immobilisers are an effective method to protect your vehicle against theft. They are designed to work with a variety of vehicles and are easily installed by an approved fitter, making it easy for you to enjoy added security while driving your prized possession.
Unlike autowatch ghost immobiliser that rely on transponders or key fobs to function, ghost immobilisers are a silent, hidden system that is controlled by the CAN bus of your vehicle. This means they can be installed without having to modify any of the original components or change any wires. They are the best choice for car owners who wish to keep their vehicle looking great while adding an extra layer of safety.
If properly installed properly, a ghost immobiliser will be almost impossible to bypass. The reason for this is that they require an unique code that can only be entered by pressing different combinations of buttons on the vehicle. The code can be customized by the vehicle owner, which ensures that only the driver knows how to turn on the device. The chance of the vehicle being stolen are significantly reduced.
Although it is one of the most effective types of security for vehicles, there are a few ways it can be bypassed. In some cases there could be issues with the ghost immobiliser's stop/start feature. This is often due to a mis-set-up however it could also be caused by other reasons.
Another method in which a ghost immobiliser can be beaten is to use an app on mobile devices to disable the device. This method can only work when the device is within Bluetooth range and the smartphone is authorized by the owner of the vehicle. It's also important to keep in mind that these apps are susceptible to issues such as connectivity issues and malfunctioning that could result in the disarming process not functioning properly.
It's important for vehicle owners to invest in a high-end solution of security, as car thieves are becoming more sophisticated. Ghost immobilisers are a discrete, powerful option that can help to deter even the most seasoned criminals by preventing them from starting your vehicle.
Countermeasures
A ghost immobiliser is undetectable to thieves as it doesn't use LED indicators or radio signals and it doesn't connect to the key fob. Instead it is directly connected to the engine controller unit using CAN. It is therefore not possible to disable, remove, or alter. It also works to protect against the most common ways of theft from vehicles, such as key copying.
The ghost immobiliser can't be detected using this method, since it doesn't require circuit cuts. The system does not require that the car owner possess their key fob it to activate it. It is activated by entering a unique code that only the owner is able to know and alter at anytime.
A 'jammer device' is another method used by thieves to attempt to get around the ghost immobiliser. This is a device that can disrupt signals between your vehicle and the driver fob which allows them to start the engine. Advanced anti-jamming techniques and regular examinations for signs of tampering can help prevent this.
Ghost immobilisers are an excellent option to protect your vehicle from theft and can be used combination with the tracking system. It is important to select a reputable provider and installer to ensure that your device is correctly fitted and compatible with your vehicle's electrical system. A TASSA-certified company is the best option to ensure safety and quality.
Some insurance companies offer discounts on vehicles with this kind of security. Check with your insurer if this discount is available. Also, look into other ways to improve the security of your car. These include securing your keys, parking in well-lit areas and taking other security measures. With the latest technology becoming increasingly accessible to criminals, it's imperative to be aware and protect your investment.