CRIME ALERT & HOME SECURITY ADVICE: High Value Vehicle Theft

CRIME ALERT & HOME SECURITY ADVICE: High Value Vehicle Theft

Dear Resident,

We are advising residents in Fife to review their home and vehicle security, this is following recent incidents where properties have been targeted specifically for high-value vehicles parked outside.

In these cases, offenders aim to force entry to the home solely to locate car keys. Taking a few key security measures may reduce the risk of your home and vehicle being targeted.

Check your door locks: Euro Cylinder Security

Standard Euro profile cylinders fitted to uPVC and composite doors are vulnerable to a technique known as “lock snapping” if they are older or unrated

How to check your locks

Look for the Kitemark / accreditation: Open your door and inspect the face of the lock cylinder. Look for a British Standard Kitemark with 3 Stars (TS007 3 Star) or a Sold Secure Diamond (SS213) logo stamped on it.

Check the fit: Ensure your lock cylinder is flush with the handle face plate. A cylinder which protrudes more than 3mm is far easier to grip for an intruder to grip and snap.

Upgrade Unrated Locks: If your lock shows no star rating or is flush mounted without anti-snap accreditation, consider upgrading to a TS007 3-Star of SS312 Sold Secure Diamond rated cylinder

Vehicle and Key Security

Out of Sight, Out of Reach: Never leave car keys on hallway tables, key hooks near the front door, or visible through glass panels. Store them out of sight in a secure location

Block Signal : If your vehicle has a key less entry/start system, store your key fobs in a Faraday pouch / box or a signal blocking container when inside your home to prevent relay attacks. Remember to test the Faraday pouch / box regularly

Physical Vehicle Locks: Use a visible steering wheel lock or pedal box lock as a secondary physical deterrent.

General Home Target Hardening

Secure Key Storage: Lock away spare keys to garages vehicles, or outbuildings

Keep Side Gates Locked: Use high-grade padlocks and latches to prevent access to the rear or side of your home

Double Check Door: Always lift the handle (if applicable) and turn the key to fully engage multipoint locking systems.

Report Suspicious Activity: If you notice any suspicious individuals or vehicles loitering in your neighbourhood, please report it immediately via 101 (or 999 if a crime is in progress). Information can also be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers.

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Message Sent By
PC Smith
(Police Scotland, PC - Preventions and Interventions Officer, P Div - Preventions and Interventions)