Good morning

There has been a rise in Ford Fiesta thefts across the district over the last few days, these have been stolen without the keys. The most recent thefts occurred in:

Wheatroyd Crescent and Manor Road, Ossett

Asda car park, Durkar, Wakefield

Pinderfields hospital car park, Wakefield

All the stolen Fiestas had a keyless entry system.

Cars with keyless entry unlock automatically when the key comes within a short-range distance of the car.

Keyless car theft, also known as ‘Relay theft’, occurs when a device is used to fool the car into thinking the key is close by; this unlocks the car and allows the ignition to be started.

What can I do?

Keep car keys safe - Whilst at home, keep your car keys away from the car to disrupt communication range. Avoid leaving them near your door and window. Thieves only need to be within a few metres of your car key to capture the signal, even if its inside your home.

Use a signal-blocking pouch/Faraday bag - The pouch can block the transmission of the signal from the car key once inside the pouch. You could also use a metal tin as this will also block any signal.

Turn off the fob’s wireless signal - Wireless signals on some keyless fobs can be turned off. Look in your car manual to see if this is possible, if not, contact your vehicle manufacturer.

Steering wheel lock – Guards against various theft techniques.

Immobilisers – Drivers have to input a short code or sequence to unlock and operate the steering wheel.

As with any additional security for vehicles, try to purchase devices that are:

§  Thatcham quality assured

§  Sold Secure tested

§  Secured by Design approved