Car owners at risk of theft as criminals use tracking technology
Losing your valuable items can be a nightmare, but thanks to tracking devices, finding them has become a lot easier. However, these devices can be misused by criminals as a cheap and simple tool to steal your car. The rate of car theft is on the rise, especially in the South East and Midlands, making it crucial to be aware of the risks and know how to detect tracking devices to safeguard your vehicle.
A tracking device, such as an AirTag or similar product, is a small, magnetic tag, costing less than £30 and about the size of a £2 coin. It can be attached to anything, like your keys, wallet, or luggage. In case the item is lost, the device can be easily traced using an app. Unfortunately, car thieves have been using these tracking devices to monitor and steal vehicles, especially luxury and high-value ones that are targeted to be stolen on demand.
These criminals hide the trackers on a vehicle, which then connects with their phone, enabling them to monitor the movements of the car. They can track where the car is going, where it's parked, and where it's kept overnight, making it easier for them to steal it from the owner's house. The thieves usually return at night to break in and either steal the keys from the home or use an electronic scanner to gain entry to the car and drive it away. Once stolen, the car's location can be tracked by the thieves as it is shipped overseas.
It's important to be cautious and vigilant to prevent car theft. Keep an eye out for any suspicious activity around your vehicle and regularly check for any tracking devices. If you suspect that your car has been tampered with, seek professional help to detect and remove any trackers. By taking these simple precautions, you can protect your car from being stolen and keep it safe.
Protect yourself
It is important to check your vehicle for tracking devices if you suspect it may be at risk. Hidden tags are usually found in the roof lining, fuel tank flaps, wheel arches, and storage compartments. You can use apps like Apple's Tracker Detect or Samsung's SmartThings to scan for any unknown devices and disable the trackers once they are located.
For iPhone users, the device will alert you to the presence of any AirTags that are not registered to you. You also have the option to 'Play sound' to help you locate the tracker if it is nearby.
Owners of keyless entry cars should be extra cautious as car hacking is a major problem. Criminals can intercept the signal from electronic keys, allowing them to unlock the car without the need to press a button on the fob or a key in the lock. To prevent this from happening, electronic keys should be kept away from doors or windows and placed in a Faraday pouch or box, which will block the signal and prevent it from being intercepted.
Other deterrents
You could also invest in a steering wheel lock, which is a visible, highly effective deterrent; an engine immobiliser, or your own tracking device, helping you to locate your vehicle if it’s stolen. It’s always a good idea to make sure your parking space is lit up or on-camera and use CCTV or dashcams where possible.
If you find an AirTag or tracking device on your car, alert the police. They should be able to see who the tracker belongs to and may even be able to catch the people responsible. If your car is at high risk of being stolen, it’s definitely worth fitting your own alarm system and tracking device, enabling you to track your own vehicle.
Talk to TMD
It goes without saying that if you have a high-value or luxury car, you need to mitigate the risks using the measures detailed above. You also need to ensure you have the correct level of insurance in place, providing the necessary level of protection.
TMD has been providing tailored car insurance solutions for many years and is well aware of emerging risks and how they may affect you. We can ensure you have appropriate motor insurance in place, ensuring you are well protected should the worst happen, and also advise you on how to best minimise your risk profile.
To discuss your motor insurance needs, call us on 01992 703 000 or email us at insurance@mcdonaghs.co.uk