SIGN IN search

Prevent car theft

DATE

September 5, 2024

Karen Neville

, , ,

Is your vehicle attracting thieves? Don’t let car thieves get an easy ride.

Keyless car theft or ‘relay theft’ is when a device is used to fool the car into thinking the key is close by. This unlocks the car and starts the ignition.

Thieves only need to be within a few metres of your car key to capture the signal, even if it’s inside your home. This means that even if your car and home are secure, thieves can still unlock, start and steal your car.

How to protect your keyless entry car

• Fit a steering wheel lock as a physical deterrent. Some models can link to pedals and gear sticks.
• Consider blocking in your keyless car with another non-keyless entry car if you have one.
• When at home keep your car key (and spares) well away from the car.
• Put the keys in a screened or signal-blocking pouch, such as a Faraday Bag.
• Re-programme your keys if you buy a second-hand car.
• Turn off wireless signals on your fob when it’s not being used.

You can also find the information on Thames Valley Police website at Prevent theft from a vehicle | Crime Prevention.

If you have seen anything suspicious, have CCTV or Dashcam footage of suspects, or any information regarding car crime in your neighbourhood, please report this by using the Thames Valley Police online reporting portal at https://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/ or by calling the non-emergency number 101. If a crime is in progress, dial 999.

If you wish to remain anonymous or don’t want to speak to the police you can pass any relevant information via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 free of charge.

Latest posts

Share

RELATED STORIES

MORE STORIES

thumbnail

Newbury & Thatcham Repair Café: Fix it, don’t throw it away

“Don’t throw it away – get it fixed,” says Rebecca Foster from the Newbury and Thatcham Repair Café.

READ MORE
thumbnail

Go on a reading quest this month and enter an enchanted world with Felicity Fire

It’s World Book Day this month, so kids, put down your phones and pick up a book instead.

READ MORE
thumbnail

Young entrepreneurs wanted for Newbury Young Traders Market

Aspiring entrepreneurs can test their business ideas, trade face-to-face with customers, and promote their products to a wider audience for free at the special Young Traders Market this May.

thumbnail

14 artisan food producers to try in the South East this spring

Spring’s here, and the South East is bursting with local flavour. From vineyards and pick-your-own farms to artisan cheeses and small-batch spirits, these are the must-visit producers this season.

thumbnail

Spire Thames Valley Hospital awarded gold for commitment to patient safety

The National Joint Registry (NJR) has awarded Spire Thames Valley Hospital with Gold Level status after successfully completing a national programme of local data audits.