Insurance firm Aviva is warning that cars with keyless entry systems are twice as likely to be stolen as those without.

Following an increase in claims, the company believes the shorter days are playing into the hands of thieves. Vehicle owners need to be on their guard, as dark nights and modern theft methods create a perfect landscape for criminals.

No keys, no problem

Data from the ONS reveals that shows keyless entry was the most common method of access for vehicle thefts in England and Wales.  In the year ending March 2020, they account for more than a third (36%) of incidents, an increase of 13% from the previous year.

The data also reveals that 76% of vehicle-related thefts occurred during the hours of darkness.

There are  also insights regarding the use of security devices. In the year ending March 2010, 29% of vehicles targeted by thieves used added mechanical security devices, such as a steering lock. A decade later, this had fallen to 15%. At the same time, electronic methods such as central locking, car alarms and tracking devices had increased over the same period.

Undercover of night

Whilst darkness provides great cover or the criminals, Aviva says they are becoming more daring. The proportion of incidents where vehicles were actually taken during the hours of darkness has actually fallen. It means that more thefts  are taking place during daylight.

The study finds 65% of vehicles were stolen during darkness and dawn / dusk in the year ending March 2020, compared to 77% in the previous year.

The vast majority of these vehicles were taken from outside people’s homes (73%).

Criminals up to speed

Alec Reeder, Performance Lead, Aviva General Insurance says that “while vehicle security has developed and improved in many ways, unfortunately criminal activity is evolving too”.

“Over the past two years, we’ve found claims for stolen keyless vehicles are twice as likely as those for for non-keyless vehicles. While theft claims account for only a small proportion of our vehicle claims overall, we understand that a stolen car can be very distressing for owners. We’d encourage people to take extra precautions, particularly at this time of year, when thieves have the added advantage of reduced daylight.

“Seemingly old-fashioned mechanical devices – such as a steering wheel or foot pedal lock – can be a useful visible deterrent, encouraging thieves to think twice. Other steps include using a signal blocking pouch for keys, or parking in a garage or secure area where possible. Cars really can be gone in 60 seconds, so it’s vital that motorists stay one step ahead of the criminals.”

Five top tips

  • Always lock the door. No matter where you park, even if you need to leave your vehicle unattended for just a minute. Make sure to close the windows and sunroof if you have one.
  • Buy a steering wheel lock or foot pedal lock. These two simple, old-fashioned car anti-theft devices will not only make it harder for the thieves to steal your vehicle but also work as excellent visible theft deterrents.
  • Purchase a signal blocking pouch, container or box to keep your car keys in (often sold as “Faraday” items). This is another simple and relatively inexpensive way to reduce the risk of car theft if you have electronic keys. These devices prevent signals from your keys being intercepted and manipulated by thieves.
  • Fit a vehicle tracking system. Some cars already come fitted with vehicle tracking systems but unfortunately criminals know exactly which models feature tracking devices. Considering fitting your own vehicle tracking device, even if you have one pre-installed.
  • Park the vehicle in a locked garage or secure area. This will further reduce the risk of your vehicle being stolen by adding an additional obstacle for the thieves to overcome. Aviva research finds just 34% of motorists with a garage always store their car in it.

Five more…

  • Park your vehicle in a well-lit area. According to the Met Police, vehicles parked in dark and less busy areas are more likely to be broken into and damaged. It is therefore recommended to park in well-lit and busier areas if you don’t have a private garage or driveway – and when away from home.
  • Don’t leave anything in your vehicle. Anything worth stealing makes your vehicle more attractive to thieves. Keep your car as ‘clean’ as possible and try not to leave anything inside, especially valuables. If you must store something in your vehicle for a short length of time, make sure it’s out of sight.
  • Consider the use of immobilisers. Immobilisers prevent the engine from starting without a correct key or fob. All new cars sold in England and Wales since October 1998 will have immobilisers installed already but if you have an older car, it may be worth considering one.
  • Never leave the keys in the ignition. It can only take a few seconds for your car to get stolen and in addition it increases the risk of damage to your vehicle. Also think about where you keep your car keys – don’t store them in the garage or near your front or back door.
  • Consider CCTV, locked gates and increased home security. Anything that helps improve your home security will help improve your car security too. CCTV or locked gates will make it harder for the thieves to break in and by making your home – and car – a less attractive target.