Relay and reprogramming thefts continue to be problems across the region, says the Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS).
In a recent release, the HRPS says that, since January, a total of 52 vehicles stolen from Milton and Halton Hills that have been attributed to the use of relay or reprogramming technology. In the majority of these thefts, the vehicles are being stolen from residents’ driveways during the overnight hours, with most thefts typically taking less than one minute.
Car thieves continue to trick the vehicle’s keyless entry system by relaying the signal from your fob. They do this by using a relay theft device that amplifies the signal from your fob that is sitting at the front of the house, typically by the front-door.
Thieves will also first gain entry to the vehicle by mechanical means (breaking in by using a tool). They will then access the vehicle’s diagnostic port and reprogram a blank key fob which allows them to start and steal the vehicle.
This was covered in a July feature on relay thefts. We went into detail on the thefts with HRPS Constable Ryan Anderson, and it included a video of a relay theft. The video was a showcase for residents to highlight just how fast these thefts can happen.
There are measures that residents can take to mitigate the risk of having their vehicle(s) stolen:
- Park your vehicle in a locked and secured garage
- Install an on-board diagnostic blocker
- Install a steering wheel lock device
- Combine the above measures with an aftermarket GPS tracking device
- Place vehicle key fob inside a radio frequency shielding bag when not in use
- Lock your vehicle at all times
- Equip your vehicle with an alarm
- Install home security cameras that capture the exterior of your residence, including the driveway
- Take steps to conceal the Vehicle Identification Number (V.I.N.)
Crime prevention is a shared responsibility. Call 911 if you witness a crime in progress. Call 905-825-4777 if you see suspicious vehicles or persons in your neighbourhood.
Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers. “See something? Hear something? Know something? Contact Crime Stoppers” at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca
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