BRAZEN thieves are using a bizarre technique to steal cars from driveways in the middle of the night.
Footage shows crooks waving a “relay device” outside a home in suburban Birmingham just before midnight on October 23.
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One thief stood near the house holding a wire with both hands above his head.
The wire was plugged into a device which the thief had slotted into the front of his body.
His accomplice stood poised by the car – ready to jump in if it pinged open.
But the Hyundai Tucson’s owner Debbie Sofroniou had her car keys safely stowed in a Faraday pouch.
This stopped the relay device from amplifying the signal between the keys and the car.
Debbie said the thieves tried to steal three cars in one hour along the street – successfully making off with one.
She told the Birmingham Mail: “A gentleman came this morning and he’s got footage of them attempting to get into his car.
“He said he didn’t sleep at all for the rest of the night. They seem to be trying it all around this area.”
Debbie added: “They tried all the ones they could in the space of an hour.”
The footage shows an attempt at keyless theft, when crooks use a “relay box” to trick a car into thinking the key is nearby.
To guard against keyless theft, drivers should use a Thatcham-approved steering lock to cover the whole wheel.
Speak to your dealer to make sure your car has all the latest software updates and security tech.
West Midlands Police said: “We are investigating several incidents of attempted car relay thefts in the Streetly area.
“We are reviewing CCTV and doorbell footage as we look to identify the offenders involved.”
If you have information or footage which could help cops, call 101 quoting crime reference number 20/948332/24.
Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
How to protect your car against ‘keyless theft’
HERE are some ways to protect your vehicle from relay theft:
- Keep your keys out of sight and away from your front door and letterbox. You can store them in a signal-blocking pouch, like a Faraday bag.
- A steering wheel lock or wheel clamp can act as a physical barrier, making it harder for thieves to drive away.
- Consider installing a tracking device. The tracker can send an alert if your car is broken into and it can also help police find the car if it’s stolen.
- A doorbell camera or security camera can deter criminals and provide evidence if a crime occurs.
- Park your car in well-lit areas and avoid leaving it in isolated spots, especially at night. If you don’t have a garage, park your car close to home.
- Check for software updates. Many cars have over-the-air updates that include new security measures.
- Check your car is locked. Always manually check that your car is locked before walking away.
Source: West Midlands Police
