Classic alarm systems try to deter a thief; an engine immobiliser physically prevents the vehicle from being stolen. It is a piece of hardware that can cut the engine remotely or automatically.
How does it work?
The immobiliser module connects to the vehicle's ignition and fuel circuit. On command it cuts that circuit: a parked vehicle cannot be started, and a moving vehicle is never stopped abruptly; speed and ignition are monitored so it is disabled at a safe point.
In the Rubikas system the block is triggered in two ways: remotely with one tap from the app, or automatically when fingerprint verification fails.
A real scenario: unauthorised use
Suppose your key has been cloned, or someone like a valet or an employee tries to use the vehicle without permission. When the driver does not scan a registered fingerprint, the system first sends an alert and then engages the immobiliser. The vehicle will not start and you know about it immediately.
There is an insurance angle too: certified security systems qualify for discounts with many insurers. Thatcham certified Rubikas hardware falls into this category.