Blog entry by Orlando Harricks
What is a Ghost Immobiliser?
Thieves are constantly developing ways to get around car security systems, but advanced anti-jamming technology as well as vigilant monitoring can ward off these threats. Ghost immobilisers, such as the CAN Phantom and the Autowatch ghost immobiliser review 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 very difficult to crack.
A ghost immobiliser is a security system that has modern technology, is designed to prevent theft of vehicles. Its design is discrete and it is difficult to hack, which makes it a formidable deterrent to determined thieves.
The system is connected to your vehicle's CAN data bus and is programmed using a unique pin code of your choice. The system will block your vehicle's ignition until you press series buttons, which will ensure that it doesn't start without your knowledge.
This kind of system is especially effective against modern-day thieves. Although they might be able to copy keys or take your vehicle using a relay attack, there's no easy way to bypass the ghost immobiliser.
There are several types of ghost immobilisers on the market such as CAN Phantom and Autowatch Ghost. Both of these systems are highly recommended, since they're both TASSA certified and offer unrivalled protection against relay and key cloning attacks.
Unlike traditional alarm systems, ghost immobilisers don't send any radio signals. This means it's virtually impossible to detect with common diagnostic tools such as OBD scanners. Ghost immobilisers are harder to hack and disable because it doesn't make use of radio signals.
A ghost immobiliser is compatible with other security devices that are more advanced including GPS tracking and physical locks. Multiple layers of security can make it more difficult for thieves to rob vehicles, and ultimately could result in their arrest.
Even the most sophisticated criminals are still able to find ways to circumvent security systems. For example, some thieves employ jamming devices to disrupt the signals between an immobiliser ghost and your vehicle's ECU. Some thieves use a technique known as "spoofing" which involves sending fake messages to the immobiliser to try to fool it. These techniques can be extremely costly for thieves and can cause severe damage to your vehicle. By being alert and regularly updating your security systems, you will greatly reduce the chance of your vehicle being taken away.
How Does a Ghost Immobiliser function?
Immobilisers are one of the best investments you could make to safeguard your car. It stops your car from starting if a wrong code is entered alongside the key fob. In addition, it can to deter thieves and help you recover your vehicle after it's been taken. However, determined criminals will find ways to get around even the most effective security systems. That's why it's essential to use multiple security measures and update them regularly.
This is especially true for high-end cars, like Porsches or Mercedes-Benzes. These types of vehicles are often targeted by thieves due to their worth. A ghost immobiliser can be an inconspicuous and effective way to make it difficult for thieves to steal your vehicle. It's an excellent 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 LED indicators or keypads. It is connected to your vehicle's CAN system (Controller Area Network), and is programmed to a unique pin code that you select. This is entered via buttons on the steering wheel or center console. You can choose an array of up to 20 characters for an extra level of security. The Autowatch Ghost is TASSA certified, which means that it's recognized by a number of official companies and insurers.
Ghost immobilisers are also simple to switch off and on again when you have to take your vehicle in for service or repairs they are an ideal tool for those who frequently drive their cars. They are not a replacement for a keyfob, and should only be used in conjunction with one.
Many car stolen with ghost immobiliser owners are looking for a more sophisticated anti-theft system because the threat of theft from vehicles is becoming more sophisticated. While an immobiliser was once sufficient to prevent hotwiring, more tech-savvy thieves are using new tactics such as relay car theft. Many car owners have scoured ghost immobilisers to secure their vehicles. However thieves have always found ways to circumvent them.
How can a Ghost Immobiliser be escaped?
Ghost immobilisers can be an effective method to protect your vehicle against theft. They are designed to be compatible with a range of vehicles. They can be easily installed by an approved fitter, making it easy for you to enjoy additional security while driving your most prized possession.
Unlike other systems that rely on transponders or key fobs to operate ghost immobilisers are a invisible, silent system that is controlled by the CAN bus of your vehicle. This means that they can be put in place without the need to alter any of the original components or rewire any wires. This makes them a great choice for vehicle owners who wish to add an extra layer of security to their car while keeping the vehicle looking its best.
When properly installed properly, a ghost immobiliser will be nearly impossible to bypass. The reason is that they require an unique code that is only entered by pressing different combinations of buttons on the vehicle. The vehicle owner can customize the code, making sure that only the driver is aware of how to activate it. The chance of the vehicle being stolen are significantly diminished.
However, despite being one of the most effective forms of vehicle security there are a few ways it can be hacked. In certain instances there could be issues with the ghost immobiliser's stop/start feature. This can often be attributed to a wrong configuration of the system, however occasionally, it could be due to a variety of other factors beyond the reach that the system is able to control.
A mobile application can also be used to get around the ghost immobiliser. It is important to remember that this method is only available when the device is in Bluetooth range and the smartphone is authorized by the vehicle owner. It's important to keep in mind that these apps are vulnerable to issues such as connectivity issues and malfunctioning operation which could lead to the disarming process not working properly.
With the number of car criminals becoming more sophisticated, it is essential for car owners to invest in a high-end security system. Ghost immobilisers are an obtrusive effective and reliable solution that can dissuade even the most experienced criminals by preventing them from starting your vehicle.
Countermeasures
The ghost immobiliser is not easily spotted by thieves since it doesn't use radio signals or LED indicators or LED indicators, nor is it linked to the key fob. It is instead directly connected to the engine control unit using CAN. It is therefore impossible to disable, remove or tamper with. It also helps protect against the most common methods of theft from vehicles like key duplicates.
The ghost immobiliser can't be detected by this method, since it doesn't involve cutting of circuits. It doesn't depend on the vehicle owner having their key fob to activate the system as it is triggered by entering a unique pin code sequence that only the owner knows and can change at any time.
A "jammer device" is another way that thieves try to evade the ghost 11 immobiliser immobiliser. This is a device that could interfere with signals between your vehicle and the driver fob and allow them to start the engine. However, modern anti-jamming technology is able to prevent this from happening, as will regular inspection for indications of tampering.
Ghost immobilisers can be a great way to stop vehicle theft. They can also be combined with an electronic tracking device. It is essential to select a reliable installer and supplier to ensure that your device is installed correctly and compatible with the electrical system of your vehicle. A company that is TASSA-certified is the best option to guarantee quality and safety.
Having a ghost immobiliser fitted to your vehicle could help you save money on your insurance premium, as certain insurers offer discounts for vehicles with this type of protection. Check with your insurer for the discount offered. Also, consider other methods to increase the security of your car ghost immobiliser. 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 vigilant and protect your investment.