UK keyless car theft hitting unparalleled levels - Former burglar reveals how to protect your car from thieves
Keyless car thefts peaked at an all-time high last year
GETTY
Keyless car thefts are at an all-time high, with 2023 being the worst year ever for criminals targeting keyless vehicles. To help drivers protect themselves against burglars, GB News asked a former burglar what motorists can do to best prevent their cars from being impacted.
Drivers who own more modern vehicles with keyless entry are targeted at a more frequent rate, with criminals using rudimentary relay devices to hack the signal of the car fob to unlock the car without anyone realising their car has disappeared from their driveway.
Data from the end of 2023 found that certain car models are more susceptible to being stolen. Between September 2021 and September 2023, thefts of keyless Lexus vehicles jumped a staggering 513 per cent, Toyota thefts increased by 2013 per cent and Hyundai made up 81 per cent of claims.
GB News spoke to an ex-burglar from Safe.co.uk about the best ways drivers can prevent their keyless vehicles from being targeted by criminals when parking at home, on the road and in public.
Do you have a story you'd like to share? Get in touch by emailingmotoring@gbnews.uk
Drivers can buy a Faraday pouch to minimise the risk of having their car stolen PAFor drivers with keyless car entry, should they do anything more to protect themselves?
It is quite surprising how easy it is to access a keyless car. To protect against this, you can use a signal-blockingpouch (also known as a Faraday bag) for your key when not in use, to prevent thieves from amplifying the key’s signal to unlock your car. Additionally, consider turning off the key fob’s wireless signal when it’s not needed, if your car allows it.
Without equipment, simply parking your car in a garage or a well-lit area can also help deter potential thieves. Install some exterior lighting or CCTV on your house, or if on the road, park next to a street light. Light gives the feel of ‘out in the open’, which most burglars try and avoid.
What can drivers around the country do to save themselves from having their vehicles targeted?
One of the best ways to protect your car from burglars is to always lock your doors and close your windows, even if you’re just leaving the car for a few minutes. It’s amazing how many burglars roam the streets at night just trying their luck with car doors, and will simply walk away if locked.
A steering wheel lock can also deter thieves. When burglars see these, they know tools are required to get through to the wheel, which will make noise and draw attention to the activity.
Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight; store them in the boot, or better yet, take them with you.
What in-car methods are the most suitable for protecting vehicles?
Using a combination of visible and hidden deterrents is effective. Visible deterrents like steering wheel locks, gear locks, and car alarms can discourage theft, but if accessed, the element of surprise can sometimes encourage thieves to abandon the vehicle.
Consider having a ghost fitted, which requires a ‘pincode’ to start the ignition. If the burglary is carried out, a GPS tracking device can also be invaluable for recovering your car if it’s stolen.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
- Driving law changes launching in June could see petrol and diesel car owners hit with massive fines
- Car carrying 14 people including eight children not wearing seatbelts stopped by police in 'serious offence'
- Britons warned of driving law changes you may have missed - anti-motorist plans, Low Emission Zones and more
Roughly 360,000 vehicles were reported stolen last year
GETTYAre there any parking tips that drivers should keep in mind to minimise their chances of having their cars stolen?
Yes, where and how you park can significantly impact your car’s security.
Parking on the road:
Always try to park in well-lit, busy areas, as thieves are less likely to target vehicles where they can be easily seen. Consider parking near building entrances or in areas with high foot traffic. A small tip, but one that can go a long way, always turn your wheels towards the curb when parking.It makes towing the car away one step more difficult for thieves.
Parking in car parks:
When possible, use secure car parks, or garages with reliable CCTV. Public car parks with a barrier upon exit are recommended, as the barrier can act as an obstacle to exit.
Parking at home:
If you’re parking at home, use your garage if you have one, and ensure it’s locked. It sounds obvious, but garage doors tend to be loud and clunky, so accessing them may create the fear of being heard by neighbours. Seek exterior lighting for the home, or install a gate. The more deterrents, and steps for burglars to get through, the more likely they are to leave you alone!