Tech-savvy thieves target cars

Most commonly in these thefts, the owner reported to police they retained the keys but their car had vanished.

Police intelligence suggests one in five Victorian cars are stolen in these circumstances, with third-party electronic devices becoming increasingly available for purchase.

These devices are capable of programming or mimicking keys, and once inside a vehicle, the device can be plugged into the car’s on-board diagnostic port to override the security system and start the engine.

Police intelligence suggests cars with electronic push-start technology are being targeted, as no ignition key is needed, with the most common makes and models stolen including:

Vehicle Crime Squad Dectective Inspector Julie MacDonald said it was considered impossible to steal a car through this device only two years ago.

“Modern-day cars are akin to computers on wheels and while this comes with plenty of benefits, it also creates opportunity for offenders,” she said.

“Vehicle immobilisers were a technology facilitated solution at the turn of the century — the emergence of key programming devices are proving to be a technology facilitated problem.

“We strongly encourage owners of impacted cars to consider all possible methods to improve their vehicle’s security — there are a range of auto shops and websites that stock these anti-theft products, and staff can assist with advising you on what will best suit your vehicle.”

Police are urging owners of these vehicles to look at preventative measures to help deter thieves, including an onboard diagnostic port lock to prevent an offender connecting a reprogramming device.

Other tips include parking your vehicle off-street and always ensuring it is locked.

More information on safety measures can be found at tinyurl.com/37erztc4