Vehicle crime: key-less access

Warwickshire Police has seen an increase in the sophistication of vehicle crime offences. As manufactures and Police work together through organisations like the National Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service, criminals have had to respond to the improved security offered with more and more technology-based methods of stealing cars and their contents.

It’s important for all car owners to recognise these technological developments, especially for those vehicles that have key-less access or key-less drive, and to help prevent the theft of their property by making it harder for criminals.
We are asking owners to:

• Use a Keyless Entry Fob Signal Blocker. Your car keyless entry fob emits a short range signal that allows you to open your car without pressing any button on the fob. Criminals have been using special signal amplifiers to amplify this signal to gain entry to your car.
• Check with your main dealer that – regardless of the age of the vehicle – it has had all its recalls completed and software updated.
• Check with your main dealer what latest security measures can be retrofitted to older vehicles. This can cost less than the excess on your insurance, in the event of a claim.
• To explore what aftermarket security products are available from third parties. Thatcham is a source of tested products.
• Consider using a Thatcham tested and approved steering wheel lock that provides full coverage of the wheel.
• Keep full control of your keys. Valet parking, car washes, and even some garages have been found to copy keys.
• Make sure ‘the fob has done the job’, and that passengers haven’t left a window or door open, even slightly.
• Don’t leave anything visible in the vehicle. Sat Navs, loose change, and bags are all attractive to thieves.
• When parking, always choose a well-lit location with natural or electronic surveillance. Use a car park, whenever possible, which has been awarded the ‘Park Mark’.
• At home, if you have a garage, use it. Apply the same principles as parking away from home (Well lit, natural or electronic surveillance etc.). Consider installing security lights or CCTV to improve the deterrent.

The Police and Partner Agencies are working across the County to reduce this type of incident, however, if you have any information concerning vehicle crime, it is requested that you contact the Police on 101. Alternatively, if you wish your call to remain anonymous please ring Crimestoppers free on 0800 555111.