Local police warn of increase in thefts of keyless vehicles

There has been a recent increase in vehicle thefts in the borough of Rochdale, local police have warned.

Offenders have also been using signal boosters, enabling them to steal cars which use keyless entry fobs. The signal is amplified via the booster, allowing the thieves to gain entry as the vehicle is tricked into unlocking.

A spokesman for Greater Manchester Police said: “Rochdale residents, there's been a recent increase of theft of motor vehicles. There has been an issue whereby offenders are using a signal booster in order to steal vehicles which use keyless entry fobs.

“Offenders are using some kind of signal boosters at the address which tricks the vehicle into thinking that the key is closer than it actually is. The vehicle then unlocks, and the offenders can use this or another piece of equipment to steal the vehicle.”

He added: “Please be aware of this kind of crime and we suggest using some kind of small security bag within the home to store the keys which blocks the signal and prevents this kind of theft. There are many available on the internet, though at this stage we cannot guarantee their effectiveness.”