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Car theft incidents increased last year, 2023 crime statistics show. Perpetrators have different tactics. Some use force to gain access to a vehicle, while others steal by stealth. With this approach, thieves enter the vehicle through open windows or unlocked doors. Erich Schwizer (61), mobility consultancy expert at TCS, explains how you can protect your vehicle and what you should pay attention to.
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Use protective cover for keyless car keys
Keys that unlock the car wirelessly without the owner having to press a button are quite common. However, Schwizer says so-called keyless locking systems are not very secure. “Criminals can amplify the radio signal so the car thinks the key is nearby.” The doors can be easily opened while the vehicle owner is at home or shopping. For protection, there are special safes with RFID blockers that prevent criminals from amplifying the radio signal. According to Schwizer, such cases do not always work reliably. Therefore, the expert recommends testing whether the car can be opened even if the key is stored in a box. Another disadvantage is that the driver always has to take the key out of his pocket and then put it back in his pocket.
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Manually check if the vehicle is turned off
Keys that owners can use to unlock or lock the car by pressing a button also have their weak points. “Thieves can manipulate the key’s radio remote control with jammers if they hide nearby,” says Schwizer. The expert therefore recommends always checking whether the vehicle is actually turned off. “If it can’t be turned off, you should move away again to be on the safe side.”
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Park in well-lit or crowded areas
When parking, Schwizer says you should not park your car in backyards or on low-traffic streets. “Parking spaces that are illuminated or have lots of people passing by are clearly better,” he says. What further deters thieves are parking lots with video surveillance.
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Do not leave valuable items in the car
It goes without saying that you should not leave expensive items such as computers, cameras, or watches in the car. Not to mention important documents or spare keys. “You also shouldn’t store expensive sunglasses, bags or clothing in the car,” says Schwizer. Because there are thieves who will break the car window in exchange for money. According to experts, repairing the damage is often more expensive than the stolen item.
Source: Blick
I’m Ella Sammie, author specializing in the Technology sector. I have been writing for 24 Instatnt News since 2020, and am passionate about staying up to date with the latest developments in this ever-changing industry.
