Why Electronic Theft Is the Fastest Growing Vehicle Crime
Quick Summary
Electronic vehicle theft is a modern method where thieves use relay attacks, OBD port hacking and key fob signal amplification to unlock and start cars
Modern vehicles are more vulnerable due to keyless entry, push-button start, and advanced electronics
Traditional anti-theft methods are no longer enough because they rely on vehicle damage to trigger an alarm or focus on tracking after theft
An after-market vehicle immobilizer blocks electronic vehicle theft methods, even if thieves gain access to the interior or the vehicle’s electronics
The M9000 vehicle immobilizer requires your personal PIN code to drive. It’s professionally installed in a custom, hidden location in your vehicle
🔎 Looking for real prevention?
👉 Find a certified M9000 installer near you
Vehicle theft has changed dramatically in recent years.
What once required broken windows, forced ignitions, or tow trucks can now happen quietly, quickly, and without visible damage.
At the center of this shift is a method known as Electronic Vehicle Theft and it’s one of the fastest growing forms of vehicle crime across North America.
What Electronic Vehicle Theft Is
Modern vehicles are essentially computers on wheels.
Inside your vehicle is a communication system that allows different components (doors, ignition, alarms, lights, and security systems) to talk to each other. This internal network is what makes features like push-button start, keyless entry, and advanced safety systems possible.
Electronic vehicle theft occurs when criminals access this internal communication system and send commands that mimic legitimate ones, such as unlocking doors or disabling factory security. Some methods include:
Relay Attacks - Thieves work together; one stands near the home with a signal amplifier to capture the fob's signal, while the other stands by the car with a receiver to open and start it
OBD Port Hacking - Thieves break into the vehicle and plug a device into the On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) port to reprogram a new key or override the immobilizer
Signal Amplification - Devices can amplify signals from key fobs located over 100 meters away
The result:
No broken windows
No loud alarms
No obvious signs of forced entry
To the vehicle, the commands look legitimate even though they’re not. In many cases, theft can happen in minutes or less, even in well-lit areas or residential neighborhoods.
This is why electronic vehicle theft has increased so rapidly. It’s efficient, quiet, and difficult to detect in real time.
Why Traditional Methods Don’t Stop Electronic Theft
Traditional anti-theft methods were designed for a different era of theft.
These are effective when:
A window is broken
A door is forced open
A loud disturbance draws attention
Electronic vehicle theft bypasses these triggers entirely.
Because the vehicle is being electronically “told” to unlock and start, the anti-theft system often never activates. Even when alarms do sound, experienced thieves are rarely deterred by noise alone.
How After-Market Immobilization Works
Modern theft prevention focuses on one critical principle:
A vehicle that cannot move cannot be stolen.
After-market immobilization systems like the M9000 prevent the vehicle from being driven, even if thieves gain access to the interior or electronics. Your unique PIN code is required to start and drive the vehicle.
Rather than reacting after a theft has occurred, immobilization:
Interrupts the theft process
Prevents the engine from operating normally
Stops the vehicle before it can be driven away
Why Professional Installation Matters
Because electronic vehicle theft targets your vehicle electronics, installation quality is critical.
Modern vehicles differ widely in:
Electronic architecture
Security protocols
Control module placement
A properly installed after-market immobilization system like the M9000 must be integrated correctly and discreetly to remain effective and reliable.
This is why professional installation by a certified installer matters:
Ensures compatibility with your specific vehicle
Maintains reliability and functionality
Avoids unintended electrical issues
Provides long-term protection
Security systems are only as effective as their installation.
Find a Certified M9000 Installer Near You
Electronic vehicle theft is one of the fastest growing vehicle crimes because it exploits modern vehicle technology.
Stopping it requires a modern approach focused on prevention.
If you’re concerned about protecting your vehicle from electronic vehicle theft, learn more about the M9000 vehicle immobilizer or chat with a Mastergard M9000 certified professional.
Find a certified M9000 installer near you:
👉 https://www.mastergard.com/installerlocator