Police advice to car owners following spate of thefts in capital

Police have issued a warning to car owners following a rise
of thefts in the capital.

Thieves are using devices legally bought on the internet to interrupt
the signal between the key fob and vehicle.

This allows them to break in to steal valuables and in some cases the vehicles themselves.

A Police Scotland spokesperson warned: “Criminals can block
the radio signal between the fob and vehicle, using a signal blocker.

“You press your fob and walk away as normal, thinking the
vehicle is locked. But it isn’t.

“Once inside your vehicle, thieves can remove any items they
like or drive it away by plugging a reprogramming device into the on-board
diagnostics port and program a key, which may only take seconds.”

Preventative measures

Keep your key device in a signal blocking pouch, which has a
lining that prevents the items inside from receiving or transmitting radio
frequency signals.

Check vehicle doors are locked before walking away.

Make sure the key and any spares are stored securely and
safely. Do not store them near windows or doors.

If you buy a secondhand keyless car, get the key
reprogrammed.

Consider using a steering lock.

General advice

Do not leave any valuable items in the vehicle. If left on
show they will encourage thieves to break in. Glove boxes and under seats are
not secure and are unsuitable for the storage of valuables.

A visible steering lock will be a deterrent to thieves as
someone who is ‘obviously conscious’ of security is less likely to leave
valuables in a vehicle.

Avoid parking in dark, secluded areas. Choose locations that
are well lit and overlooked by houses, passers-by and covered by CCTV if
possible.