Sophisticated thieves are targeting high value consignments and vehicles in high-tech highway robberies.
They criminals are using scanners bought over the internet and sold legally to “read” vehicle key-codes and then put them into a blank fob or key.
Simply using the modified key gives them access to the vehicle and lets them drive away without a problem as if they were the legitimate user.
Others are using “jammers” to prevent legitimate users locking their vehicles, although they believe they have and return to find the vehicle taken or contents stolen.
The issue has been highlighted by Tracker surveillance company.
“Car hacking is a growing issue for motorists, especially as the devices that override the ignition system are so freely available on the internet and only cost around £20.” explains Andy Barrs, police liaison officer for TRACKER. “Today’s sophisticated security systems mean thieves have to be smarter than ever and the latest trends show that criminal gangs have found a way to crack keyless cars. A tracking unit can significantly increase the chances of a stolen car being returned to its rightful owner, and TRACKER devices come with a motion sensor that’s triggered even if the engine isn’t started.”
“TRACKER is the only SVR product that is used by all the UK’s police forces, helping police find and return stolen vehicles every day. With 95% of stolen cars fitted with TRACKER returned to their owners and 86% recovered within 24 hours, it could be the difference between a vehicle being found and returned or it being lost for good. The message is clear – protect your vehicle with everything you can, rather than simply relying on the features that come with the vehicle”, concludes Barrs.
Unlike other devices, TRACKER’s unique technology can locate stolen vehicles anywhere, even when they are hidden in a garage or shipping container.