AVCIS IDENTIFIES VULNERABILITY IN VEHICLES SECURITY SYSTEMS

The ACPO Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service has identified a vulnerability in the security systems in certain vehicles that relate to remote locking systems.

The use of some remote doorbell transmitters have been found to block the signal transmitted between a vehicle key fob and the transponders inside the vehicle which are used to remotely lock the doors and engage the vehicle immobiliser and alarm. Although the immobiliser will automatically engage after a few seconds it still leaves the vehicle insecure and therefore vulnerable to the thief.

Intelligence indicates that thieves wait for a motorist to leave their vehicle and then use the doorbell remote to block the signal before proceeding to steal the vehicle or contents from it.

Most modern cars either utilise flashing headlights or flashing indicators to indicate that the alarm, door locks and immobilisers have been set. However many motorists simply point their hand held remote and walk away without looking or listening for the devices to set.

Superintendent John Wake of the ACPO Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service said:

Motorists should always check that their alarms are set by testing the doors in order to ensure that the vehicle is secure.

“Leaving any valuables on display such as Satellite navigation systems or mobile phones should also be avoided.

The ACPO Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service is working with partner agencies to identify the most vulnerable vehicles and to find ways of combating this crime.

22 March 2007