Keyless car theft devices sold online for tens of thousands of pounds amid looming ban

Criminals are distributing and selling keyless car theft devices online for substantial sums, with some listings reaching up to £22,000 (about 25,000 euros). The BBC investigated price lists and instructional videos showing gadgets capable of accessing high-end vehicles like Lamborghinis and Maseratis, as well as more covert devices disguised as Bluetooth speakers. These tools facilitate theft by relay or signal interception, allowing thieves to access cars without breaking in. Affected individuals, such as Abbie Brookes-Morris in Wolverhampton, describe how attackers targeted parked vehicles near homes, using devices outside to capture signals and unlock cars within minutes. The rise of such devices correlates with a growing trend of organized crime groups stealing cars to order, moving away from opportunistic theft to highly profitable operations. Law enforcement and security researchers from Thatcham Research note that many devices have legitimate, non-criminal uses, but current evidence indicates a shift toward organized crime, including cross-border activity. New legislation within the Crime and Policing Bill is expected to ban possession or distribution of these devices, potentially imposing up to five years in prison, though experts warn the ban may not fully deter criminal networks. Preventative tips emphasize using Faraday pouches for keys, adjusting vehicle settings to disable keyless entry, and keeping keys away from living spaces to reduce relay theft risk. The article highlights a broader challenge for police in tracing and prosecuting these offenses due to the devices being circulated widely among criminals.