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I wanted to provide an update regarding the theft of motor vehicles, which members around this area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the Met Engage priority survey. Keyless car theft prevention focuses on blocking or disrupting the signal from your car key fob to prevent thieves from remotely accessing and stealing your vehicle. This can be achieved by storing keys in a Faraday pouch or box, or by turning off the wireless signal when not in use. Additional measures include using physical deterrents like steering wheel locks or wheel clamps, and ensuring your vehicle's software is up to date.
Here's a more detailed look at keyless car theft prevention:
1. Signal Blocking:
• Faraday Pouches/Boxes: These pouches or boxes are lined with a material that blocks or absorbs radio signals, preventing thieves from intercepting and amplifying the signal from your key fob.
• Keep Keys Away from Entry Points: Store your keys away from doors and windows, and further away from the car itself, to make it harder for thieves to capture the signal.
• Turn off Wireless Signals: Some fobs allow you to disable the wireless signal when not in use, adding another layer of protection,
2. Physical Deterrents:
• Steering Wheel Locks/Wheel Clamps: These act as both a visible deterrent and a physical barrier to theft.
• Alarms: Consider installing a Thatcham-approved alarm, which can alert you and potentially deter thieves.
• GPS Trackers: Consider installing a GPS tracker to help locate your vehicle if it is stolen.
3. Other Helpful Tips:
• Keep Software Up to Date: Ensure your car's software is up to date to minimize vulnerabilities.
• Be Mindful of Your Surroundings: Park in well-lit areas and consider using security lighting or cameras to deter potential thieves.
• Don't Leave Valuables Visible: Avoid leaving valuables or tools on display inside your vehicle.
• Consider a Car Cover: A car cover can make your vehicle less appealing to thieves and can also protect it from the elements.
 We know that people can be concerned about the personal and financial impact of having their vehicle stolen, which is why we will pursue and arrest those who break the law. Please consider taking the following steps to keep your vehicle safe: Check that your vehicle is locked and secure every time you leave it. Thieves often look for easy opportunities to steal from vehicles. They will usually try the handles until they get lucky and find one that has been left unlocked. Keep your keys safe, out of view when at home and away from your front door. If you have a keyless entry vehicle, keep the key well away from the vehicle while at home and turn off wireless signals on your fob when its not being used. Consider putting the keys in a screened or signal blocking pouch, such as a Faraday Bag and check that it is still working every few months. Park your vehicle in a private garage if you can. If you don’t have access to one, try to park in a well –lit open space. Try to use public car parks that are part of the police approved Park Mark safer parking scheme. Secure your number plates with tamper resistant screws to avoid them being stolen and used by others.
If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101. Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org. We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years, and we want to make sure you have had the chance to have your say. The consultation paper is available online, as well as a survey to let us know what you think. This closes on the 15 September. |
