Officers are warning drivers to take additional steps to secure their vehicles after a string of keyless thefts in parts of the county.
Twelve cars have been stolen over the last two weeks. Targets for thieves have included Mercedes and BMW vehicles; however, recently Fiat 500s, Ford Fiesta STs, and Hyundais have also been targeted.
It is currently believed that offenders have been using handheld remote entry devices, also called ‘relay’ devices, to commit keyless car theft – without touching the key.
Criminals use these illicit devices to scan for a nearby key signal, which is then transmitted to the targeted car. This fools the car into thinking the key is present, allowing the doors to be opened and the ignition to be started.
It can all happen in less than 30 seconds.
Drivers can protect themselves by:
Using signal-blocking Faraday pouches or boxes – available quickly and cheaply online. These metal-lined key purses block the signal to and from your keyless device. Check if the pouch is still working every few months.
Using steering wheel locks as an additional physical deterrent.
Ensuring keys are not left at the back of the house or near the front door. Store your car keys away from doors or windows to make it harder for thieves to scan them from outside.
Some vehicles allow you to turn off the keyless entry option and still use the push-button central locking function on your key fob.
PC Emily Duerden, local beat manager for Worksop North East, said: “Experienced thieves can steal your car from outside your home in as little as a minute by exploiting the keyless entry system.
“As well as investigating reports we’ve received, we’re carrying out marked and unmarked patrols focusing on key routes used by criminals who come into Bassetlaw to steal vehicles – providing a visible deterrent to offenders and aiding sightings of stolen vehicles.
“As we work to track these people down and hold them to account, we want to prevent further thefts by sharing some advice with owners, especially of modern or high-end vehicles that are targets.
“We encourage all owners of keyless entry vehicles to consider some very simple and cost-effective steps they can take right now to help stop these individuals in their tracks.
“This includes thinking about where they leave their keys overnight and considering the immediate purchase of a Faraday pouch or box to protect themselves. These devices can be delivered online very quickly and are extremely effective in blocking the necessary signal.”
