In a method for operating an electronic anti-theft system, data communication is effected between the control device and the key further to an access authorization request, whereby the control device unlocks the doors and deactivates an alarm system as a function of the data communication. The data communication for unlocking the doors and the data communication for disarming the alarm system are separate from each other. In this way, the mechanical unlocking of the doors can be initiated immediately after the data communication for unlocking the doors. The corresponding data communication for deactivating the alarm system is effected in parallel with this, whereby extensive cryptological data is exchanged between the control device and the key.