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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
National
Michelle Cullen

Motorists warned as thieves using 'clever technology' to steal keyless entry cars

Motorists have been warned that thieves are using "clever technology" to steal keyless entry cars.

The PSNI have said 35 cars have been stolen over the last 11 months after robbers gained access to vehicles by redirecting the wireless signal from key fobs.

Detectives believe an organised crime group is behind the recent spate.

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The thefts are thought to be linked to one another in a pattern that began in August 2021.

Detective Inspector Bell said: "With advances in technology, thieves are now able to gain access to your vehicle by redirecting the wireless signal from your key fob. They only need to be within a few metres of your car key to get the signal, even if it's inside your home.

"We are urging the public to be vigilant, especially those with keyless entry cars. The cars these thieves target are usually extremely expensive, so the loss is great."

Police said owners could help prevent theft by taking several precautions, including keeping car keys, including spares, away from the car, doors and windows when at home.

Motorists are also advised to put keys in a signal-blocking pouch and turn off wireless signals on their fob when it is not being used.

They are also advised to use a steering wheel lock or car alarm and park in a garage overnight if possible.

The robberies have been targeted at keyless car entry systems, which let drivers open and start their cars without having to take their keys out of their pockets.

Thieves usually work in pairs and target a car parked outside a property.

One criminal will hold a device close to the car that boosts the signal meant for the key, while the other thief will stand close to the house with another device that relays that signal to the key.

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