What is a Ghost Immobiliser?

The risk of security systems in cars being bypassed by thieves is real, but the use of advanced anti-jamming technology and a vigilant surveillance can reduce it. Ghost immobilisers, such as the CAN Phantom or the Autowatch Ghost are hidden inside the vehicle and cannot be detected by diagnostic scanners. They communicate with buttons on the center console as well as the doors.

What is a ghost immobiliser?

Ghost immobilisers are modern security system that is designed to prevent car theft. Its discreet design and hard-to-hack nature make it an effective security measure against apprehensive thieves.

The system is connected to your vehicle's CAN data bus and is programmed with a unique PIN code that you choose. The system then blocks the ignition of your vehicle until a series of buttons are pressed, ensuring that your vehicle isn't started without your knowledge.

This type 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 clone your keys or steal your car using a relay attack.

There are many different ghost immobilisers that are available on the market. These include CAN Phantom and Autowatch Phantom. Both systems are highly recommended, since they're both TASSA certified and offer unrivalled protection against key cloning and relay attacks.

Contrary to conventional alarm systems ghost immobilisers don't transmit any radio signals. It's therefore virtually impossible to detect using standard diagnostic tools, such as OBD scanners. The fact that a ghost immobiliser doesn't rely on any radio signals also makes it more difficult to hack or disable.

A ghost immobiliser can be utilized in conjunction with other advanced security devices, such as GPS tracking devices and physical locks. Multiple layers of security can make it more difficult for thieves to rob a vehicle, and ultimately lead to their arrest.

Even the best-equipped thieves still have ways to get around security systems. For instance, some thieves use jamming devices to disrupt the signal between an immobiliser ghost and your vehicle's ECU. Other thieves have developed a technique known as "spoofing," which involves sending fake signals to the immobiliser to try to fool it. These methods can be very costly for thieves and can cause severe damage to your car. By being alert and regularly updating your security systems, you can drastically reduce the risk of your vehicle being stolen.

How Does a Ghost Immobiliser Work?


An immobiliser is among the most effective security measures you can invest in. It can deter thieves and aid in recovering your stolen car. However determined thieves will find ways to get around even the best systems. It's important to update your security measures regularly and utilize a variety of security methods.

This is particularly applicable to high-end cars, such as Porsches and Mercedes-Benzes, that are frequently targeted by thieves due to their high value. Ghost immobilisers are a subtle, yet effective way to make it more difficult for thieves to take your car. It's a great complement to other security measures, like GPS tracking devices or alarm systems.

The Autowatch Ghost is a stealthy immobiliser that doesn't need any new keypads or LED indicators. It is connected to your vehicle's CAN (Controller Area Network) system and is programmed using a unique pin code that you can choose, which is entered via buttons on the steering wheel or centre console. You can even choose an option that can use up to 20 characters, providing you with a highly secure level of protection. The Autowatch Ghost is TASSA certified, which means it's recognized by a number of insurance companies and official organizations.

Ghost immobilisers are easily turned off and back on when you are required to bring your vehicle to the shop for repairs or maintenance. This makes them a great benefit for people who drive their cars regularly. However, they're not a substitute for a keyfob and are only to be used conjunction with a keyfob.

Many car owners are searching for advanced anti-theft protection as the threat of vehicle theft is getting more sophisticated. In the past the immobiliser could be enough to stop hotwiring. However, the more sophisticated criminals are now using new tactics such as relaying stolen cars. Many car owners have scoured ghost immobilisers to secure their vehicles. However, thieves have always found ways around them.

How can a Ghost Immobiliser Be Bypassed?

Ghost immobilisers are among the most effective methods to safeguard your vehicle from theft. They are compatible with a wide range of vehicles and can easily be installed by a qualified fitter.

Ghost immobilisers in contrast to other systems that work via transponders or keys fobs, are a hidden, quiet system that works through the CAN bus in 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. They are the perfect option for car owners who wish to keep their vehicle looking great while adding an extra layer of security.

If properly installed an immobiliser that is properly installed can be virtually impossible to disable. The reason for this is that they require an unique code that is only entered by pressing different combinations of buttons on the vehicle. The code can be customized by the owner of the vehicle which ensures that only the driver is aware of how to turn on the device. As a result, the chances of stealing the vehicle are greatly diminished.

However, despite being one of the most effective types of security for vehicles however, there are a few ways that it can be bypassed. In some instances, there could be issues with the stop/start functionality of the ghost immobiliser. This is often due to a wrong set-up but it could also be caused by other reasons.

Another way that a ghost immobiliser could be bypassed is by using an app for mobile devices to deactivate the device. 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 authorised by the owner of the vehicle. These apps can also be susceptible to connectivity issues as well as malfunctions that could cause the disarming process to not working.

It's important for vehicle owners to invest in a top-quality security solution, since car thieves are becoming more sophisticated. Ghost immobilisers can be a powerful, discreet option that will deter even the most experienced criminals from starting your vehicle.

Countermeasures

Ghost immobilisers are unnoticeable to thieves because it doesn't rely on LEDs or radio signals, nor does it connect to the key fob. Instead, it connects directly to the engine control unit using CAN. It is therefore not possible to disable, remove or alter. It is also effective in securing against the most common methods of theft from cars like key-cloning.

The ghost immobiliser can't be detected by 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 sequence, which only the owner is able to know and change at anytime.

Another method used by thieves to get around the ghost immobiliser is by making use of a device referred to as a 'jammer'. This is a device that could interfere with signals between your vehicle and the driver fob, allowing them to start the engine. However, modern anti-jamming technology can stop this, as well as regular inspection for signs of tampering.

Ghost immobilisers are a fantastic way to prevent vehicle theft and can be used conjunction with a tracking system. It is important to choose a reputable supplier and installer to ensure that your device is installed correctly and compatible with your vehicle's electrical system. A TASSA-certified business is the best choice to ensure safety and quality.

Installing a ghost immobiliser to your vehicle can help you reduce your insurance premium, as some insurers offer a discount for vehicles that come with this kind of protection. Check with your insurer for the discount offered. Also, look into other methods to increase the security of your car. You can take precautions such as locking your keys and parking in well-lit places. It is crucial to protect your investment and keep up with the latest technology available to criminals.