What is a Ghost Immobiliser?
The threat of security systems in cars being hacked by thieves is real, but the use of modern anti-jamming technologies and vigilant monitoring can reduce it. 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 with buttons on the centre console and the doors.
What is a Ghost Immobiliser?
A ghost immobiliser, a modern security system designed to deter car theft. Its discreet design and hard-to-hack nature make it a powerful deterrent against determined thieves.
The system is connected to the CAN data bus of your vehicle and programmed by your unique PIN code. The system then blocks your vehicles ignition until a set of buttons are pressed, making sure that the vehicle can't be started without your knowledge.
This kind of system is particularly 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 steal your car using a relay attack.
There are a few different kinds of ghost immobilisers on the market such as CAN Phantom and Autowatch Ghost. Both systems are highly recommended because they're TASSA-verified and offer unrivalled protection against key cloning attacks and relay attacks.
Ghost immobilisers do not transmit radio signals, as opposed to traditional alarm systems. This means it's almost impossible to detect with common diagnostic tools such as OBD scanners. The fact that ghost immobilisers don't rely on any radio signals makes it much harder to hack or disable.
Ghost immobilisers are compatible with other advanced security gadgets including GPS tracking and physical locks. The addition of multiple layers of security can make it more difficult for thieves to steal your vehicle and could eventually lead to being nabbed and eventually arrested.
Unfortunately, even the best-equipped thieves are still finding ways to circumvent security systems. Some thieves employ jamming equipment to disrupt the signal that is sent between the ghost immobiliser and your vehicle's ECU. Some have devised a method called "spoofing," which involves sending fake signals to the immobiliser to try to fool it. These techniques can be costly for thieves and can cause severe damage to your vehicle. You can reduce the risk of theft by re-evaluating your security system frequently and being vigilant.
How Does a Ghost Immobiliser Function?
Immobilisers are among the best investments you could make to protect your vehicle. It stops your car from starting if an invalid code is entered alongside the key fob. In addition, it can help deter thieves and recover your car after it has been taken. However, determined thieves will find ways to evade even the most advanced security systems. That's why it's essential to use multiple security measures and to update them frequently.
This is particularly applicable to high-end cars, like Porsches and Mercedes-Benzes that are often targeted by thieves due to their high value. A ghost immobiliser can be a discreet, yet effective way to make it more difficult for thieves to steal your car. It's a great addition to other security measures, such as GPS tracking devices or alarm systems.
The Autowatch Ghost is a stealthy immobiliser that does not require any new keypads or LED indicators. It connects to your car's CAN (Controller Area Network) system and is programmed with a unique pin code of your choosing which you enter using buttons in the steering wheel or on the centre console. You can select a sequence of up 20 characters to give you an additional level of security. The Autowatch Ghost is TASSA certified, which means it's recognized by a number of official companies and insurers.
Ghost immobilisers are also simple to switch off and back on again when you need to take your car in for service or repairs, which makes them an excellent asset for those who drive their vehicles frequently. However, they're not a replacement for a keyfob, and should only be used in conjunction with a keyfob.
Many car owners are looking for the most advanced security against theft as the threat of theft from vehicles is getting more sophisticated. In the past the immobiliser could be enough to stop hotwiring. However, more technologically-savvy criminals are now using new methods like relay car theft. Many owners of cars have sought out ghost immobilisers to safeguard their vehicles. However the thieves have always found ways around them.
How Can a Ghost Immobiliser be escaped?
Ghost immobilisers are among the most effective methods to secure your vehicle from theft. They are designed to work with a range of vehicles and are easily installed by a certified fitter, making it simple for you to enjoy additional peace of mind while driving your prized possession.
In contrast to other systems that rely on transponders or key fobs ghost immobilisers operate invisible, silent system that is controlled by the CAN bus in your vehicle. They can be installed without altering the original components or changing any wires. They are the perfect option for car owners who want to keep their vehicle looking good while adding a layer of security.
If properly installed, a ghost immobiliser can be almost impossible to bypass. The reason for this is that they require a unique code that can only be activated by pressing various combinations of buttons on the vehicle. The vehicle owner can customize the code, making sure that only the driver knows how to activate it. This means that the likelihood of stealing the vehicle are drastically reduced.
However, despite being one of the most effective forms of security for vehicles however, there are a few ways it is able to be evaded. In certain instances there could be issues with the ghost immobiliser's stop/start function. This can often be attributed to a mis-set-up of the system, however sometimes, it could be due to other factors beyond the reach of the system's control.
Another method by which a ghost immobiliser can be avoided is by using a mobile app to disarm the device. However, it is important to keep in mind that this method can only be used when the device is within Bluetooth range and the smartphone is authorized by the vehicle owner. These apps are also prone to connectivity issues and faulty operation which can cause the disarming procedure to failing.
It is essential for owners of vehicles to invest in a high-end security system, since car thieves are becoming more sophisticated. Ghost immobilisers are a discreet and powerful solution that can deter even the most seasoned criminals by preventing them from starting your vehicle.
Countermeasures
Ghost immobilisers are undetectable to thieves as it doesn't rely on LEDs or radio signals, nor does it connect to the key fob. Instead, it is directly linked to the engine controller unit using CAN. This makes it tamper proof and is impossible to remove or disable. It also helps protect against the most common ways of theft from vehicles, such as key copying.
Organised car thief gangs frequently use diagnostics reading devices to identify circuit cuts made by security systems, but the ghost immobiliser is not able to be detected through this method as it does not involve any cuts to the circuit. It doesn't depend on the car owner carrying their key fob to activate the system because it's activated by entering a unique pin code sequence that only the owner knows and is able to change at any time.
A 'jammer device' is another method used by thieves to try to bypass the ghost immobiliser. This device could disrupt the signals between your car and the fob of the driver. It allows the vehicle to start. However, modern anti-jamming technology can stop this, as can regular inspection for evidence of altering.
Ghost immobilisers are a fantastic way to prevent vehicle theft and can be used conjunction with a tracking system. It is crucial to choose an experienced installer and provider to ensure that the device is installed correctly and is compatible with the electrical system of your vehicle. A company that is TASSA-certified is the best choice to guarantee quality and safety.
A ghost immobiliser fitted to your vehicle can help you reduce your insurance premiums, since some insurers offer a discount for vehicles with this type of security. Ask your insurance provider to see if this discount is offered. Also, look into other methods to increase the security of your vehicle. how much is a ghost immobiliser can take precautions like locking your keys and parking in well-lit places. With the latest technology becoming more available to thieves, it's essential to be vigilant and protect your investment.