Driver habits opening door to vehicle theft
A new study has revealed that drivers are leaving themselves vulnerable to vehicle theft by failing to take even the most basis precautions.
UK police forces recorded more than 133,000 car thefts in 2024, which is roughly one for every 287 vehicles.
This is an eight per cent rise since 2019 with keyless technology a contributing factor as thieves are able to intercept the signal between the key and the vehicle and use relay devices to unlock or start the car without needing to break in.
However, research from Go.Compare found that fewer than a third of keyless car owners regularly use a signal-blocking Faraday pouch, while just 21% use a steering lock.
Meanwhile, 16% admitted to keeping their keys near a door or window, 15% said they have a signal-blocking pouch but don’t always use it, while 15% said they took no precautions at all.
Simple steps
Tom Banks, Go.Compare’s car insurance spokesperson, said: “Some of the habits we’re seeing, like leaving keys by the front door or near windows, are exactly what car thieves look for. With keyless cars, it can take just seconds for criminals to access a vehicle if the key signal is within reach.
“Drivers might think it won’t happen to them, but small oversights can make a big difference. Simple steps, such as using a Faraday pouch and keeping keys out of sight, can significantly reduce the risk.”
