Cars today are more connected than ever. With key fobs, Bluetooth, built-in Wi-Fi, and even mobile apps that can start your engine or track your location. It’s convenient, but it also opens the door to a newer kind of risk: vehicle cyberattacks.

One of the most talked about threats is key-fob “relay” theft. In these cases, thieves use a small device to capture and relay your fob’s signal from inside your house to your car in the driveway. The car thinks the key is nearby and unlocks (and in some cases) even starts. It sounds like something out of a movie, but real incidents have been documented across the country.

Other risks come from your car’s connected features. Systems that use Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or mobile apps can sometimes be targeted by hackers. Especially if the software isn’t updated or if your account credentials are weak. That’s why experts recommend keeping your vehicle’s software current, just like you do for your phone or laptop.

Even devices meant to help you can add risk if not properly secured. Many insurance companies offer “good driver” tracking devices that plug into your car’s diagnostic port. Most are safe, but if they come from lesser-known vendors or aren’t installed correctly, they could expose your vehicle or data to unnecessary vulnerabilities.

So, what can Nevada drivers do?

Start simple:

• Store your key fob in a signal-blocking pouch or metal container overnight.
• Use strong, unique passwords for any vehicle apps and enable two-factor authentication when possible.
• Turn off Bluetooth or Wi-Fi in your car when you’re not using them.
• Only use professionally installed and reputable tracking or telematics devices.
• And if you ever suspect tampering or a cyber issue, contact your dealership or insurance provider. Don’t try to remove hardware yourself.

​
While high-tech car hacks are still rare, they’re becoming more common as vehicles get smarter. Taking a few small precautions now can go a long way toward keeping your ride and your personal data secure on Nevada’s open roads.

Here’s something we can all agree on… avoiding distractions while driving is a good thing. But now, you can actually get rewarded for it! Nationwide’s new Focused Driving Rewards program gives you points (and even gift cards!) just for keeping your eyes on the road and off your phone.

The best part? You don’t even need to have Nationwide insurance to join. Yep, anyone can participate. It’s totally free, and your insurance rates aren’t affected at all.

Here’s how it works: you download the Nationwide mobile app and enroll in the Focused Driving Rewards program. The app automatically tracks your trips and looks for signs of distracted driving. Things like picking up your phone, tapping the screen, or making handheld calls. Every couple of weeks, you’ll get a “score” based on how focused your driving has been. The better your score, the more points you earn, which you can trade in for e-gift cards from popular retailers.

It’s a pretty fun way to build better driving habits and maybe earn a few bucks along the way. For younger drivers (under 30), there’s even more incentive: they can earn up to $60 every six months just for driving safely. Parents with teen drivers might especially like this one! It’s a simple, no-pressure way to encourage safer habits behind the wheel.

And again, just to repeat the cool part, you don’t have to be a Nationwide customer. The program is open to anyone who wants to give it a try. It’s not insurance, just a free rewards program that helps you stay accountable (and distraction-free) while you drive.

If you’re someone who occasionally sneaks a glance at your phone at red lights, this might be the perfect nudge to break that habit. After all, who doesn’t like earning gift cards for something you’re supposed to be doing anyway… driving safely?

Here’s the link to learn more!
​ www.nationwide.com/personal/insurance/auto/discounts/focused-driving/

Electric vehicles are awesome! Quiet, quick, and eco-friendly. But as more Teslas and EVs hit the road, more homeowners are adding chargers to their garages. It’s super convenient… until it’s not. Recently, there have been a few reports of home chargers overheating or even catching fire. Yikes! Before you panic, though, most of these issues come down to one thing, improper electrical installation, not the car or the charger itself.

EV chargers pull a lot of power. We’re talking way more than your fridge, dryer, or power tools combined. That means the outlet, breaker, and wiring all need to be up to code and correctly sized for the job. When someone unlicensed or a well-meaning DIYer tries to “save a few bucks,” it can lead to loose connections, overheated wires, and, unfortunately, some very toasty wall sockets.

That’s why it’s so important to hire a licensed and bonded electrician for the installation. A licensed pro knows how to safely handle high-voltage wiring and make sure your setup meets local building codes. And if something ever does go wrong, being bonded means you’re financially protected.

We’re not trying to scare anyone, but this stuff is real. Check out the photos below from one of our clients who had this exact issue after an improper install. Thankfully, everyone was safe, but it’s a good reminder that when it comes to electricity, shortcuts can be costly.

Go ahead and enjoy the perks of your electric ride! Just make sure your charger is installed by someone who truly knows their volts from their amps. 

Fall in Nevada is a funny season… We trade triple-digit days for cooler nights, desert winds, and maybe even a little rain if we’re lucky. It’s also the perfect time to give your home some TLC before winter sneaks up. A little effort now can save you from headaches (and insurance claims) later.

1. Clear those gutters.
Sure, we don’t have as many big leafy trees as other states, but wind loves to carry dirt, pine needles, and the occasional tumbleweed into gutters. Keep them clear so water flows where it’s supposed to and not into your walls or foundation.

2. Take a peek at your roof.
Summer sun is no joke in Nevada, and sudden rainstorms can make tiny roof cracks a big problem. Grab a pair of binoculars (or hire a pro) and check for missing or damaged shingles. Future-you will thank you.

3. Show your HVAC some love.
We rely on AC almost year-round, and soon the heat will be running too. Change your filters and schedule a quick check-up. You’ll breathe easier and keep your system humming.

4. Trim those branches.
Nevada winds are sneaky. One strong gust and that dangling branch could land on your fence, car, or worse. A quick trim now saves damage later.

5. Test your detectors.
Cooler nights mean fireplaces, space heaters, and furnaces kick on. Make sure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working. It’s an easy five-minute safety win.

A few fall chores now can keep your home cozy, safe, and claim-free all season long. And if you’re wondering whether your insurance is ready for whatever fall throws your way, Blue Sky is just a call or click away.