Suffolk Police urge vigilance after rise in keyless car thefts
Suffolk Police are asking vehicle owners to be vigilant following several thefts in the county over the past month.
Last updated 5th Feb 2023
Motorists in Suffolk are being urged to keep their vehicles secure following a series of thefts in the county, in particular vehicles that have keyless entry systems
Several cars in the county have been stolen from private driveways over the past month, all of which are keyless operated. Keyless theft of a vehicle occurs when criminals use a transmitter to amplify the signal being emitted from the genuine key inside the owner’s house to reach the vehicle outside. This allows it to be unlocked and driven away in seconds.
Vehicle owners, those with keyless entry systems, are being advised to make sure they use as many preventative measures as possible to keep their vehicle secure.
Owners can take the following steps to reduce the risk of this theft:
In the house, store keys away from accessible doors and windows, inside a Faraday bag (search RFID security at www.securedbydesign.com for details of police preferred specification products) and then potentially into a metal tin. Several anti-theft pouches are available which are designed to block signals emitted by the key.
It may be possible to disable the keyless entry function. Check your owner manual or seek advice from your local dealer if required.
Use physical security measures such as steering wheel locks or wheel clamps to compliment your vehicles own security.
Ensure that basic security measures, such as checking the doors and windows are secure, are always done. Where possible, park vehicles within secure compounds covered by CCTV.
If you cannot park the vehicle in a garage, park it on a well-lit drive or well-lit area as close to your property as possible.