Vehicle Crime

The darker nights have meant that there has been a recent rise in vehicle thefts across the Erewash area. Thieves are targeting keyless drive vehicles and vehicles with tent boxes.

Keyless car theft or 'relay theft' is when a device is used to fool the car into thinking the key is close by. This unlocks the car and allows the ignition to start. Thieves only need to be within a few metres of your car to capture the signal, even if its inside your home. This means that even if your car and home are secure, thieves can still unlock, start and steal your car.

Things you can do to protect yourself:-

🔹 Keep car keys safe - Keep keys away from the vehicle and in away from doors and windows - a faraday pouch will disrupt the signal preventing it being captured.
🔹 Turn off the fobs wireless signal.
🔹 Additional physical security - fit steering wheel/ pedal locks.
🔹 If you have a garage use it to secure your vehicle.
🔹 Always park in well lit areas preferably with CCTV.
🔹 Invest in CCTV or a Ring doorbell to protect your property.
🔹 Consider removing your tent box.

For any additional security advice the following websites may be useful:-

https://www.thatcham.org
https://www.solsecure.com
https://www.securebydesign.com

If you have concerns or information regarding vehicle crime in your area please contact us using any of the following contact methods:

•    Website – We have crime reporting tools on our website: https://www.derbyshire.police.uk
•    Facebook – send us a private message to the Derbyshire Constabulary Facebook page
•    Phone – call us on 101 

You can also anonymously contact the independent charity CrimeStoppers, on 0800 555 111, or by visiting the CrimeStoppers website