What is a Ghost Immobiliser?
The threat of car security systems being hacked by thieves is real, but the use of sophisticated anti-jamming technology and a vigilant surveillance can help reduce the risk. Ghost immobilisers like the CAN Phantom and the Autowatch Ghost are hidden inside the vehicle, undetectable by scanners that detect them, and rely on buttons in the centre console or doors to communicate, making them very difficult to crack.
What is a Ghost Immobiliser?
Ghost immobilisers is a modern security device designed to stop car theft. Its design is discrete and it is hard to hack, which makes it a powerful deterrent for determined thieves.
The system is connected to the CAN data bus in your vehicle and is programmed with a unique PIN that you choose. The system will stop your vehicle's ignition until you press series buttons, ensuring it can't start without you knowing.
This kind of system is particularly efficient against thieves who are savvy to modern technology. There is no way to get around the ghost immobiliser. They could be able to clone your keys or take your car away using a relay attack.
There are several types of ghost immobilisers on the market, including CAN Phantom and Autowatch Ghost. ghost immobiliser and tracker are highly recommended as they're TASSA-certified and provide unbeatable security against key cloning attacks and relay attacks.
In contrast to traditional alarm systems, ghost immobilisers don't transmit any radio signals. It's therefore nearly impossible to detect using standard diagnostic tools, like 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 can be utilized in combination with other advanced security systems, such as GPS tracking devices and physical locks. The addition of multiple layers of security will make it harder for thieves to steal your vehicle and could eventually lead to being nabbed and eventually arrested.
However, even the most well-equipped thieves continue to find ways to bypass security systems. Some thieves use jamming equipment to disrupt the signal that is sent between an immobiliser ghost and your vehicle's ECU. ghost immobiliser and tracker employ a method known as "spoofing" which is the process of sending fake messages to the immobiliser to try to fool it. These methods can be very costly for thieves and cause serious damage to your car. By staying vigilant and regularly updating your security systems, you will significantly reduce the risk of your vehicle being taken away.
How does a Ghost Immobiliser Function?
Immobilisers are among the best investments you could make to safeguard your car. It can deter thieves, and assist in recovering the vehicle you have stolen. However, determined thieves will find a way to bypass even the best security systems. That's why it's important to implement multiple security measures and update them regularly.
This is particularly the case for luxury vehicles like Porsches and Mercedes-Benzes that are often targeted by thieves because of their value. Ghost immobilisers can be a subtle and effective way to make it more difficult for thieves to take your car. It's an excellent addition to other security measures, like GPS tracking devices or alarm systems.
The Autowatch Ghost is a discreet immobiliser that doesn't need any new LED indicators or keypads. It is connected to your vehicle's CAN (Controller Area Network) system and is programmed with a unique pin code that you can choose that is entered using buttons on the steering wheel or in the center console. You can choose any combination of up 20 characters to give you an extra layer of security. The Autowatch Ghost is TASSA verified, meaning it is recognized by major official companies and insurers.
Ghost immobilisers are also simple to switch off and back on again when you want to take your car in for service or repairs they are an excellent asset for those who regularly drive their cars. They are not a substitute for a keyfob, and is best used with one.
Many car owners are searching for a more sophisticated anti-theft system as the threat of vehicle theft is growing more sophisticated. While an immobiliser was once enough to stop the hotwiring process, nowadays, thieves are employing new strategies such as relay car theft. Many car owners have sought out ghost immobilisers to secure their vehicles. However thieves have always found ways around them.
How Can a Ghost Immobiliser be escaped?
Ghost immobilisers are among the most effective methods to safeguard your vehicle from theft. They are designed to be compatible with a wide range of vehicles and can be easily installed by an approved fitter, making it possible for you to enjoy additional peace of mind while driving the car you love.
In contrast to other systems that rely on transponders or key fobs to function, ghost immobilisers are a silent, hidden system that operates through the CAN bus of 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. This makes them an ideal choice for vehicle owners who wish to add an extra layer of security to their vehicle while still keeping the car looking its best.
Ghost immobilisers are almost impossible to bypass when installed correctly. This is because they require a specific pin code sequence, which is entered by pressing various combinations of buttons that are already within the vehicle. The code can be modified by the owner of the vehicle which ensures that only the driver is aware of how to turn on the device. In turn, the chances of stealing the vehicle are drastically reduced.
There are ways to bypass the Ghost Immobiliser, one of the most effective vehicle security systems available. In certain instances, there could be issues with the stop/start feature of the ghost immobiliser. This is typically caused by a bad configuration but it could also be caused by other causes.
Another method in which a ghost immobiliser could be avoided is by using an app for mobile devices to deactivate the device. It is important to remember that this method can only be used while the device is in Bluetooth range and when the smartphone is authorised by the owner of the vehicle. These apps can also be prone to connectivity issues and malfunctions that could result in the disarming process failing.
It's important for vehicle owners to invest in a top-quality security solution, since car thieves are becoming more sophisticated. Ghost immobilisers are an obtrusive and powerful option that can help to deter even the most seasoned criminals by preventing them from starting your vehicle.
Countermeasures
The ghost immobiliser cannot be detectable by thieves as it doesn't use the use of LED indicators or radio signals, nor is it connected to the key fob. Instead, it connects directly to the engine control unit through CAN. This makes it tamperproof and impossible to take off or disable. It also helps in protecting against the most popular methods of theft from cars such as key-cloning.
The ghost immobiliser isn't detected using this method, since it doesn't involve cutting of circuits. The system doesn't require the owner of the vehicle to have their key fob on it to activate it. It is activated by entering a unique code sequence, which only the owner can know and change at anytime.

Another method used by thieves to circumvent the ghost immobiliser is by using a device known as"jammers". This is a device that can block signals between your vehicle and the driver fob which allows them to start the engine. Modern anti-jamming technology and regular checks for signs of tampering can aid in preventing this.
Ghost immobilisers can be a great way to stop vehicle theft. They can also be used in conjunction with an electronic tracking device. However, it is essential to select a reputable provider and installer to ensure the device is properly installed and compatible with the electrical system of your vehicle. To ensure safety and quality, a TASSA-certified company is the best option.
Certain insurers offer discounts to vehicles with this kind of security. Check with your insurer for the discount offered. Also, think about other ways to improve the security of your car. This could include locking your keys as well as parking in well-lit areas and taking other precautionary measures. It is crucial to protect your investment and keep up with the latest technology available to thieves.