It’s all in the eyes. Security technology takes a bite out of car thefts.
As long as there have been cars, trucks, SUV’s or any other thing that has four wheels and drives, there have been auto thieves. Car companies have come a long way in theft deterrent and car alarm technology, but automotive thefts continue to occur everyday. As careful as one may be, it is still possible for your car to be stolen right out from under you.
Automakers have created many ways for your vehicle to be less tempting to auto thieves. Anti-theft devices have been in place for many years. Car alarms, key fobs that only enable the vehicle to operate when in the vehicle, and other devices are available to keep your car safe, but some say it isn’t enough. Even with auto disabling services like OnStar don’t seem to deter brazen thieves today. It can have an effect on the used car market with vehicles that are not always as secure.
Although most of the vehicles stolen tend to be older vehicles with less security features, thieves are wisening up to them and finding ways to “hack” the technology. One company thinks they have the solution to automobile theft. Voxx Electronics, which specializes in mobile technology, has paired with EyeLock to develop a system that scans the iris of those in the driver’s seat. This technology will only allow the vehicle to start if the driver’s iris is recognized.
The EyeLock technology will include infrared cameras mounted on the visor or dashboard that will scan and measure 240 distinct aspects of the iris, making it almost impossible for the automobile to be stolen. This feature will also be useful to companies who have fleets, so they can make sure the appropriate person is driving the vehicle.
Vehicle theft is down in recent years from 2 million vehicles stolen annually to 699,594 vehicles last year, but that is still one vehicle stolen every 45 seconds. This technology could save individuals on their car insurance as well as save their vehicle from theft. The technology is expected to be available for purchase within a couple of years as an aftermarket feature for existing vehicles, and to auto manufacturers in about four years for new vehicles.
