Prevent car theft

Karen Neville

Berkshire, Education, Oxfordshire, Round and About

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.

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

How to protect your keyless entry car

Latest posts

Share