What is a Ghost Immobiliser?
Thieves have been devising ways to bypass security systems in cars, but advanced anti-jamming technology and vigilant monitoring can mitigate these threats. Ghost immobilisers like the CAN Phantom or the Autowatch Ghost are hidden within the vehicle and aren't detected by diagnostic scanners. They communicate using buttons located on the central console and doors.
What is a Ghost Immobiliser?

A ghost immobiliser is a modern security device designed to stop theft of vehicles. Its design is discrete and it is difficult to hack, which makes it a powerful deterrent to determined thieves.
The system connects to your vehicle's CAN data bus and is programmed with a unique PIN code of your choosing. The system will then block your vehicles ignition until a set of buttons are pressed, ensuring that the vehicle can't be started without you knowing it.
This kind of system is especially effective against modern-day thieves. While they might be able to clone keys or steal your vehicle using a relay attack however, there is no method to bypass the ghost immobiliser.
There are many different ghost immobilisers that are available on the market. These include CAN Phantom and Autowatch Phantom. Both are highly recommended as they're TASSA-certified and offer unbeatable protection from key cloning attacks as well as relay attacks.
In contrast to traditional alarm systems, a ghost immobiliser doesn't send any radio signals. This means it's almost impossible to detect with common diagnostic tools, such as OBD scanners. The fact that a ghost immobiliser doesn't depend on radio signals also makes it much harder to hack or disable.
A ghost immobiliser is compatible with other security devices that are more advanced, such as GPS tracking and physical locks. Multiple layers of security can make it harder for thieves to rob vehicles, and ultimately could result in their arrest.
Even the most sophisticated thieves find ways to bypass security systems. Some thieves employ jamming devices to interfere with the signal sent between a ghost immobiliser, and your vehicle's ECU. Some thieves use a technique called "spoofing" which is the process of sending fake messages to the immobiliser to attempt to fool it. These techniques can be extremely costly for thieves and can cause severe damage to your vehicle. You can lessen the risk of theft by updating your security system frequently and being vigilant.
How does a Ghost Immobiliser Function?
Immobilisers are among the most beneficial investments you can make to protect your car. It can deter thieves, and aid in recovering your car that was stolen. However, determined criminals will find ways to get around even the most effective security systems. That's why it's important to use multiple security measures and to update them frequently.
This is particularly true for high-end cars, like Porsches or Mercedes-Benzes. These vehicles are often targeted by thieves because of their value. A ghost immobiliser is an effective and discreet method to make it more difficult for thieves to steal your car, and it's an excellent option to add to other security measures, such as alarm systems or GPS tracking devices.
The Autowatch Ghost is a hidden 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 then programmed with a unique pin code that you select. It's entered by via buttons on the steering wheel or center console. You can also choose one that is made up of up to 20 characters, which provides you with an extremely secure level of security. The Autowatch Ghost is TASSA certified, which means that it's recognised by large insurers and official companies.
Ghost immobilisers are also simple to turn off and on again when you need to take your car in for service or repairs This makes them a valuable asset for people who regularly drive their cars. However, they're not a substitute for a keyfob and are only to be used combination with one.
Many car owners are searching for advanced anti-theft protection as the threat of theft from vehicles is becoming more sophisticated. While immobilisers were once sufficient to stop the hotwiring process, nowadays, thieves are employing new strategies like relay car theft. Many car owners have scoured ghost immobilisers to secure their vehicles. However the thieves have always found ways to get around them.
How can Ghost Immobiliser be repelled?
Ghost immobilisers can be an extremely effective method to safeguard your vehicle from theft. They are compatible with many vehicles and can be easily fitted by a trained fitter.
Ghost immobilisers, unlike other systems that operate via transponders or keys fobs are a hidden, quiet system that works via the CAN bus inside your vehicle. They can be installed without altering any of the original components, or rewiring any wires. They are the best option for car owners who want to keep their vehicle looking good while adding a layer of security.
A ghost immobiliser is almost impossible to disable if installed correctly. The reason is that they require an unique code that can only be entered by pressing different combinations of buttons on the vehicle. The code can be customized by the vehicle owner, which ensures that only the driver is aware of how to activate the device. In turn, the chances of stealing the vehicle are greatly decreased.
There are ways to circumvent the Ghost Immobiliser, one of the most effective security systems for vehicles available. In some instances, there could be problems with the stop/start function of the ghost immobiliser. This is often due to a mis-set-up but it could be caused by other causes.
Another method by which a ghost immobiliser could be beaten is to use a mobile app to disarm the device. This method works only when the device is within Bluetooth range and the phone is approved by the owner of the vehicle. It's also important to keep in mind that these apps are prone to issues with connectivity and faulty operation that could result in the disarming process failing properly.
It's important for vehicle owners to invest into a high-quality security solution, since car thieves are becoming more sophisticated. Ghost immobilisers are an obtrusive, powerful solution that can deter even the most seasoned criminals by stopping them from launching your vehicle.
Countermeasures
A ghost immobiliser is undetectable to thieves as it doesn't rely on LEDs or radio signals and it doesn't connect to the key fob. Instead it is directly connected to the engine controller unit through CAN. It is therefore difficult to remove, disable or tamper with. It also assists in protecting against the most commonly used car theft methods, such as key-cloning.
Car thief gangs that are organized often employ diagnostics devices to detect the circuit breaks caused by security systems. However, the ghost immobiliser cannot to be detected by this method because it does not cause any cutting of circuits. It does not require the vehicle owner to have their key fob on it to activate it. autowatch ghost immobiliser cost is activated by entering a specific code sequence, which only the owner can know and alter at any time.
Another way thieves try to get around the ghost immobiliser is using a device known as"jammers". This device can interfere with the signals between your vehicle and the driver's fob. It allows the vehicle to start. Modern anti-jamming technology and regular examinations for indications of tampering could help prevent this.
Ghost immobilisers can be a great way to stop vehicle theft. They can also be used in conjunction with a tracking device. It is important to select a reputable provider and installer to ensure that your device is installed correctly and compatible with your vehicle's electrical system. To ensure quality and safety, a TASSA-certified company is the best choice.
Certain insurers offer discounts to vehicles that have this type of security. It is worth contacting your insurance provider to find out whether they offer this discount, as well as looking into other ways you can improve the security of your vehicle. You can take precautions like locking your keys and parking in well-lit places. With the latest technology becoming more available to thieves, it's crucial to be aware and protect your investment.