Federal prosecutors say they have uncovered a large-scale vehicle theft operation in the Washington, D.C. region, one that allegedly relied on OBD-II tools and an export pipeline that stretched as far as Africa.[…]
According to officials, the group used handheld OBD-II scanners—readily available online—to bypass factory security systems. These tools can reprogram a vehicle to accept a blank key fob, allowing thieves to take a car without forced entry. Authorities say the process can be completed in under a minute.
“They don’t need keys and they don’t need hot wiring,” Pirro said. “No smashed windows, no drama. Just a sleek electronic device called an Autel, A-U-T-E-L. And in under a minute, the car’s brain is rewritten. The car is gone in 60 seconds. Welcome to the new world of car theft.”
Pirro also said there should be more regulation surrounding ownership of OBD-II devices.
Better yet would be regulation to end the ridiculous key fob. That a vehicle can be driven away without the fob being physically present may be the greatest automotive breakthrough since the decision to move the fuel pump into the gas tank.
Hard to believe some Luddites still want cars they can actually work on.
Yeah … but those are even EASIER to quickly and silently break into … like this 2014 Ford Explorer.
https://youtu.be/Du6LsLDnh04?si=FNs3mb5VEUvBkVFy
But then I’d have to drive a 2014 Ford Explorer.
Don’t get me started on fuel pumps inside gas tanks. Worst thing since front-wheel drive.
I still shake my head that keys don’t have multiple layers of security including a physical one like the olden days. Instead of getting more secure, they get less secure. Why not add a pin number to physical keys and a transponder? Then figure out a couple more security systems to add on like being in contact with Spacex at all time. In my business, I had a safe, security cameras, locks that couldn’t be wrecked with a pipe wrench, and an alarm system. Assholes still broke in but got nothing of value. I could have had security film to hold broken glass together, a smoker, and strobe lights. I’m sure there are more. Why would $100,000 vehicles have a single fallible security system?
Even with an OBD II device the thieves still need to get into the vehicle. The OBD port is usually under the drivers side dash.
The IGLA ignition dis abler system includes a block on the OBD port function. Without the FOB or the code the ODB port is off line.
A thief may start the car, but without FOB for the IGLA, or the code to enter to disable, the car will not go into gear. I don’t use the IGLA FOB, only the security code, so if someone gets my key ring they still can’t get anywhere.
Desjardins auto insurance highly recommended this tool, then after I installed it they wanted to charge me an extra $500 a year unless I installed a different set of devices that allowed for tracking. I’m now with Intact Insurance.
Where do you live that car theft is a problem?
L – Qui Bono versus Qui Non Bono?
Are you looking for a name for your U2 tribute act?
I’d go with Qui Non Bono unless your singer is really nailing it.
FILTHY LIBERALS
Are you saying that even if it has a Government required random blow start for Alcoholics that drive, it will be disabled?
ASKING FOR AN ALCOHOLIC DRIVING “FRIEND”
FILTHY LIBERALS, just Ban Crime. Duh
Neither my 2025 Cadillac CT5 or 2022 Hyundai Tucson can be driven without the fob. Of course, if you can change the key fob settings this is not an issue