Summary
Devices that allow criminals to steal keyless cars are being sold online for over £20,000. A new law aims to ban owning these devices, but experts are doubtful it will stop criminals from using them. Organized crime groups are using these gadgets to steal cars, with many keyless thefts reported.
Key Facts
- Gadgets for stealing keyless cars are sold online for more than £20,000.
- These devices can intercept and use the signal from a car key inside a house to unlock cars.
- A new law will make it illegal to own or share these theft devices.
- Over 100,000 vehicles were stolen in the past year, according to crime statistics.
- 60% to 70% of vehicle thefts in the past year were keyless models, as per Admiral Insurance.
- Some gadgets mimic Bluetooth speakers and others use military-grade technology.
- Criminal gangs are renting out these devices and stealing cars on demand.
- The difficulty in policing these crimes stems from the gadgets being easily passed around.
