Have you ever heard of wrapping your key fob in aluminum foil? It may sound unconventional, but it’s a smart move. Your key fob’s signal is surprisingly easy for criminals to intercept, potentially allowing them to open your car and even drive away without setting off any alarms. Wrapping it in foil blocks these signals, keeping your vehicle secure.
Your car is likely one of the most valuable things you own, making it a prime target for various scams. Let’s explore some of the latest scams targeting car owners and those shopping for a new ride.
Cloned VIN Scam
Maril Bauter, a Boston woman, paid around $40,000 for an SUV on Facebook Marketplace. The Carfax report looked legitimate, and she received a clean title from the licensing agency. Everything seemed perfect until, almost three years later, the police seized her vehicle. It turned out that Bauter had fallen victim to a VIN cloning scam.
Here’s how it works: Scammers start with a stolen car or one totaled by an insurance company. They find a car of the same make, model, and year, then snap a picture of its VIN through the windshield. They then replace the VIN plate on the stolen or totaled vehicle with the one from the clean vehicle. With fake documents, they can complete the sale, leaving the buyer unaware.
To avoid falling into this trap, follow these steps when buying from a private seller:
- Use sites like Carfax or AutoCheck to check the VIN for any anomalies.
- Compare the VIN on the car (near the windshield and in the door) with the title and all other documents provided by the seller. Look for signs of tampering.
- Consider hiring a mechanic or car inspection service to look for major issues or red flags.
Bauter’s story had a happy ending, as her insurance company paid out her claim. However, not every victim is as lucky, so it’s crucial to do your due diligence.
Rental Scams on Social Media
An 18-year-old in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, was arrested for posting his neighbors’ cars for rent on Facebook Marketplace. He collected deposits and sent renters to the car owners’ real addresses. One neighbor reported that eight people showed up at her house over three weeks, and another had his car damaged by an angry would-be renter.
To avoid this scam:
- Never pay ahead for a rental through community sales platforms. It’s best to stick with legitimate rental companies.
Throwback Cyber Attacks
Cybercriminals can use old-school denial-of-service attacks to overwhelm your vehicle, potentially shutting down critical functions like airbags, anti-lock brakes, and door locks. This is possible because some connected cars have built-in Wi-Fi hotspots. If hackers infiltrate your car’s local network, they can steal your data or disrupt your vehicle’s systems.
To protect yourself:
- Regularly change your car’s onboard Wi-Fi network password.
- Turn off your car’s Bluetooth and Wi-Fi when not in use.
Exploiting Onboard Diagnostics Ports
Modern cars come with onboard diagnostics ports, allowing mechanics to access your car’s data, read error codes, and even program new keys. However, exploit kits available to anyone can use this port to replicate keys and steal vehicles.
To safeguard your car:
- Always go to a reputable mechanic.
- Consider using a physical steering wheel lock for extra security.
Mobile Malware
Crooks can also target connected cars with internet connectivity and built-in web browsers. By sending malicious emails and messages, they can install malware on your car’s system, potentially causing significant damage.
To avoid this:
- Practice good internet safety even when connected to your car. Never open emails, messages, or links from unknown sources.
Stay Informed and Protected
For more advice on digital safety, tune in to the Kim Komando Show, the nation’s largest weekend radio talk show. Kim offers tips on smartphones, tablets, online privacy, and data hacks. Visit her website for daily tips, free newsletters, and more.
By staying informed and cautious, you can protect your car from modern scams and cyber threats.
