Merseyside Police has warned Knowsley residents to safeguard their vehicles, particularly keyless entry cars, as reports of keyless car thefts have been increasing.

Recent data from Tracker reveals an ongoing increase in vehicle thefts, mainly due to a surge in keyless relay attacks. Tracker UK consistently collects monthly data on high-tech car thefts. It saw a record peak in keyless car theft in the country in July 2023, when it accounted for 98 percent of all recovered stolen vehicles within that month.

Merseyside police also warned residents about thieves using transmitters to steal keyless cars last year. Keyless fobs, unlike traditional keys, use radio signals to unlock the vehicle from a distance and start the engine without physically inserting the key.

As it is more convenient for car owners, it is also the case for criminals. They can clone wireless key signals, even when the keys are put securely inside a home. By replicating the signal, these criminals can access the vehicle on the driveway, start the engine, and steal it.

Another study by the comparison website Go Compare supports this warning. It found that in 2022, Merseyside reported 4.37 car thefts per 1,000 registered vehicles.

The study involved Freedom of Information requests sent to 45 UK police forces, with 36 providing data. Merseyside ranked tenth in car theft rates based on available data.

“Although cars today are generally a lot more secure than they were 20 years ago, keyless cars come with a unique set of vulnerabilities that owners need to take seriously,” said Knowsley local policing chief inspector Chris Ruane.

“Keyless cars open automatically when you get near the car as long the fob is in your pocket. Yes – it’s convenient. But keyless car thieves only need to be within a few metres of your vehicle for as little as 20 seconds to get it open, get the ignition started and be off.”

Tips to secure your keyless fobs

Chief Inspector Ruane has provided crucial tips for keyless car owners to secure their keys and prevent vehicle theft.

The first suggestion is to use a Faraday Bag. It is a signal-blocking case for keyless fobs, available for around £10 or less from popular online retailers. Placing the key and spare key inside the bag obstructs relay devices from functioning by blocking their signals.

Ruane recommended that car owners test the effectiveness of the Faraday pouch by placing the fob inside and then approaching the car. If the vehicle fails to unlock, it is working as intended.

Some car owners also use a metal tin to store their fobs as an alternative to Faraday bags. However, the effectiveness of this method varies depending on the tin. Testing it is advisable for assurance.

Another option is to install a steering wheel lock. Keyless car thefts can be done swiftly, and a traditional steering wheel lock can significantly delay it. It is a strong deterrent against targeting your vehicle, as it is difficult to remove, usually requiring a power drill or bolt cutters.

The force also recommends parking in a locked garage if available. Otherwise, park defensively — near your home, facing the house. Installing lights and CCTV and ensuring the car is locked upon exiting can also be excellent crime prevention measures.

If you require extra protection, security companies such as Marengo can offer comprehensive personalised solutions for both your vehicle and property, including preventive solutions, surveillance, as well as tracking in case of theft.