Almost 130,000 car thefts were reported to the police in 2023/24, according to official statistics, while more than 700,000 cars were broken into.
These figures represented the highest toll since 2008/09, and it’s suspected that the prevalence of technology used to break into keyless cars is a driving force behind the increase in thefts.
Back in 2008/09, cars were commonly broken into using lock picking techniques and smashed windows along with hotwiring the motors. Now, keyless cars are being targeted by a process called ‘relay attacks’.
Recent changes to the Crime and Policing Bill will now make it illegal to possess the electronic devices used in relay attacks, with anyone found to be carrying the disruptive technology facing a prison sentence of up to five years and unlimited fines.
What is a Relay Attack?
Because many cars have keyless entry systems, relay attacks have become a popular means for criminals to break into motors.
Relay attacks can affect 96% of motorists, with the most at risk cars using keyless fob systems along with ‘connected cars’ that use the internet to access maps, travel info and any other infotainment systems.
The process typically involves two people working together, where one stands near the targeted vehicle and the other is positioned near the house with a device that can pick up a signal from the key fob.
Worryingly, some devices have become sophisticated enough to pick up a signal from over 100 metres away. With the signal from the key fob picked up and transmitted to the car, the thieves can access the vehicle and drive away immediately.
It’s possible to pick up the device online for just £100, and despite the new threat of a five-year prison sentence, it’s important for car owners to protect their vehicle to avoid becoming the latest victim of theft. Here are five key tips to ensure that you’re well protected from break-ins:
1. Use a Signal-Blocking Pouch
One of the easiest and most cost-effective measures you can take to protect your keyless entry car is to purchase a signal-blocking pouch.
Faraday Bags have become a popular approach among motorists hoping to keep their keys safe. With pouches available for as little as £5, it can block your key fob from transmitting its code to your vehicle.
With a metallic lining, these pouches are a great solution for drivers without having to drastically change their habits surrounding their car keys. Instead of hanging your key on a hook, simply put it in a Faraday Bag.
2. Turn Off Your Fob’s Wireless Signals
For most key fobs, it’s easy to turn your wireless signal off when you arrive home. This simple measure will prevent criminals from using relay attacks to break into your car.
However, it’s still a good idea to make sure your keyless fob is kept well out of sight so that criminals don’t have the temptation of breaking into your home to steal your key for themselves.
3. Reprogramme Your Fobs
Reprogramming your fobs erases the code from the car key to the car itself. This means that a spare car key that’s not in your possession can’t be used to pair with your car, making it more susceptible to theft.
If you’re worried about your spare key fobs falling into the wrong hands, it’s worth looking to your local Master Locksmith Association (MLA) approved auto locksmith to get a quote to reprogramme your fobs.
4. Use a Steering Wheel Lock
Sometimes, nothing beats traditional motor protection methods like a steering wheel lock, wheel clamp, or upgraded alarm system.
Although these measures can be a little frustrating when getting in and out of the car, a visual deterrent is the best way to stop thieves in their tracks before even attempting to start a relay attack on your car.
Even if criminals miss the deterrent and attempt to steal your car, a steering wheel lock creates an additional barrier between them and the car, leading to a better chance of them being caught in the act.
5. Security with Window Etching
Etching a unique code on your windows is a great measure to provide an extra layer of security should the worst happen and your car is stolen. The process helps to ensure that your car is easily identifiable even if criminals change your number plate or attempt to move the car on quickly.
Window etching makes vehicles 45% less likely to be stolen, and works as an efficient deterrent. Auto specialists like Halfords offer a £20 window etching service that’s a relatively inexpensive outlay for peace of mind.
It may also be worth ensuring that all of your car windows are free of cracks or damage by using a repair service before etching to ensure that there’s no easy point of access for criminals who attempt a brute force entry or try to remove the etchings.
Keeping Your Car Safe
Prevention is always better than cure, so if you feel that your keyless car may be vulnerable to break-ins, it’s worth making preventative measures now to avoid the worst happening later down the line.
Luckily, these measures could be as simple as changing how you store your keys, or remembering to turn their signal off each night.
Keyless car thefts may be on the rise, but you shouldn’t have to worry about your car being targeted, and these low-cost measures are a great way to ensure that you have peace of mind.
