Beds police on keeping your keyless cars safe from thieves

Bedfordshire Police is issuing crime prevention advice to advise motorists how to protect their keyless vehicles.

T/Detective Inspector Chris Hutton said: “Following a rise nationally in thieves now using more sophisticated techniques to gain access to keyless entry/start button cars, there are simple steps you can take to help keep your vehicle secure and protect you from becoming a victim of crime.”

Thieves use a gadget to prevent your key fob sending the command to lock your car and it remains unlocked. Whilst this tool will not allow them to steal your car it will allow them to root through your valuables.

>How to avoid: Make sure the indicators flash when you press the lock button and listen for the doors locking.

When the correct key fob is close by, the fob recognises the signal and transmits its own code, instructing the vehicle to unlock the doors and to allow the ignition to work on the car.

Thieves use wireless transmitters to capture its radio transmission. This is relayed to another device. It allows the thief to open and start your car in the same way.

>How to avoid: Use car key signal blocker cases/sleeves, they cost less than £10, or an aluminium tin at home. Find a safe place for your keys at home and check to ensure they are out of range.

Every car has a standard diagnostic port fitted. Computer hackers have developed devices that plug into the port, boot up a vehicle’s software and then program a blank key fob. In keyless cars this can be used to start the engine as well as unlock the doors.

>How to avoid: Fit a lock to your diagnostic port and use additional security such as a steering wheel lock.

Officers are also encouraging residents to report number plate thefts. They are stolen to be used in other offences such as:

Speeding, Illegal parking, Not paying congestion charges, Driving away from a petrol forecourt without paying, Not paying for parking tickets or speeding fines, ‘Disguising’ a stolen vehicle.

Vehicles with stolen number plates have also been used in more serious crimes such as burglary, kidnap and robbery.

>How to avoid: Use Anti-theft Number Plate Bolts, they cost less than £10.

You can also visit the Bedfordshire Police website for advice on how to keep all vehicles secure and protect you from becoming a victim of crime.