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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.
Crime prevention Advice - Op Alliances
The Rav 4 Vehicle from crime prevention sources states the following:
- To prevent RAV4 theft ensure the following is completed to the best of your ability
- keep key fobs in a Faraday pouch to block signal relay attacks
- securely store keys away from front doors
- use a visible steering wheel lock.
- Park in well-lit, busy, or Park Mark-approved car parks
- install CCTV cameras such as Dashcams or a GPS tracker for additional security. Always remove valuables, ensure the car is locked.
If you can ensure this vehicle is covered by a Car Cover.
The Lexus NX Crime prevention Source state the following:
- To protect your Lexus NX from theft, always lock your vehicle and remove valuables from sight, especially in public areas. For keyless entry models, keep keys in a signal-blocking Faraday pouch.
- Consider adding a tracker for recovery. To prevent catalytic converter theft, consider professional marking or a locking device.
- Use the Lexus Link+ app to lock it remotely.
The Kia Niro Crime prevention sources state the following:
To prevent theft from your Kia Niro, take general anti-theft measures like locking it and keeping keys in a signal-blocking pouch, and consider a visible deterrent like a steering wheel lock. For model-specific security, use a steering wheel lock to deter thieves who might target models lacking an immobiliser. For keyless entry, store your key in an RFID-blocking pouch to prevent signal relay attack
The Lexus RX Crime Prevention sources state the following:
The Lexus RX physical security states the following-
Lock all doors and windows:
Always ensure all doors, windows, and the sunroof are fully closed to prevent "fishing" for entry.
• Install security screws:
Fit tamper-resistant screws on your license plates to make it harder for thieves to remove them for cloning.
• Use anti-tamper wheel nuts:
Install locking wheel nuts to secure your alloy wheels and prevent them from being stolen.
To prevent this vehicle from Catalytic Converter
• Be aware of the risk:
The catalytic converter contains precious metals, making it a target for theft.
• Park carefully:
Park your vehicle on a driveway if possible, or in a well-lit, public area to make it harder for thieves to access.
• Consider a protective cage:
A cage can be fitted around the catalytic converter for added security. Lexus UK Magazine suggests taking precautions for all Lexus models with catalytic converters.
The Toyota C-HR Crime prevention advice states the following:
In relation to the Toyota C-HR This is known for mostly Key Cloning and generic Theft
Pleasure ensure you complete the following:
- keep keys out of sight at home and store them in a Signal Blocker Faraday pouch or similar device to prevent key cloning.
- Consider additional security such as a steering wheel lock or pedal box, especially for older models, and never leave valuable items or documents in the car.
Key takeaways with this vehicle:
Lock Up Always
Park Smart
Avoid Parking in the Dark
The Hyundai Ioniq crime prevention advice states the following:
To protect your Hyundai Ioniq from theft, you should install the optional security software update from Hyundai, which includes a hardware update and new keys to prevent keyless entry attacks.
In addition, use physical deterrents like steering wheel locks, employ an RFID blocking pouch for your keys, and secure your vehicle by parking it in a garage or in a visible, well-lit area.
The Hyundai Tuscon crime prevention advice states the following:
When locking your vehicle Keep keys distant:
Store your key fob in a Faraday bag, far from your home's windows and doors, and at least 10 feet from the car.
Turn off keyless signals:
If possible, disable the keyless entry signal on your fob when it's not in use.
Park safely:
Choose well-lit, busy areas or secure, private garages when possible
The ford Fiesta Crime prevention advice states the following:
In relation to the Ford fiesta a few takeaways for this case are the following:
Vehicle Tracking:
Install a GPS tracker to help police recover the vehicle if it is stolen.
Park Smart:
Choose well-lit, busy areas, or use a locked garage if available. If parking on the street, try to park under streetlight
Always Lock Up:
Make a habit of locking your vehicle, even for short periods, and ensure windows and the sunroof are fully closed to prevent "fishing" or remote jamming.
In relation to the Ford Transit a few takeaways for this case are the following:
As these vehicles are mostly used for work purposes a few takeaways in relation to this vehicle are the following-
- Enhance security with aftermarket products like deadlocks, loom guards, and GPS trackers, and ensure tools are marked, secured with individual locks or hidden from view when stored in the van.
- Hide valuable items:
Never leave electrical items or other valuables in view; take them with you or hide them in a secure location
• Check your insurance:
Confirm your insurance policy covers any tools or equipment stored in your van overnight, as standard policies may not.
- Choose a good parking spot:
Park in well-lit, busy areas with good visibility or in view of CCTV cameras to make thieves think twice
In relation to the Mercedez Sprinter a few takeaways for this vehicle and crime prevention advice are the following:
• Install Deadlocks and Slam Locks:
These provide extra security beyond the standard locks and can make forced entry much harder.
• Secure Windows:
Consider fitting grills or security films to protect vulnerable windows.
• Use Cheaper Deterrents:
Steering wheel locks, handbrake locks, and locking fuel caps can deter opportunistic thieves.
• Be Aware of Keyless Entry Systems:
Modern keyless systems can be vulnerable to theft if your keys are left near the van.
Most importantly…
Don’t Leave the Engine Running:
Avoid leaving your van running while it's parked, as this makes it an easy target for thieves.
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. | 
