Remote jamming: a growing worry on the Dolphin Coast

Remote jamming has for a long time been a far more efficient and subtle way of stealing or breaking-into cars than the traditional breaking a window.

Criminals commonly target parking lots at shopping malls or sporting events with this method as car owners are often distracted and the thieves can easily hide in the busy crowds or the behind a pillar in an underground parking lot.

So how do they do it?

When you leave your car and push the remote to lock it and turn on its alarm system, the thief pushes a similar remote (any remote will do) at the same time – blocking your signal and preventing your car from locking.

Sometimes this means the thieves will make off with your car, but in many cases they will quietly help themselves to anything valuable they can get their hands on.

“Remote jamming is definitely on the rise on the North Coast,” said IPSS Security’s Dylan Meyrick.

Also read: Cars stolen from Ballito Junction

What makes this crime even worse is that there are usually no signs of forced entry, so it is very tricky to claim these losses from insurance as the responsibility is ultimately with the owners to make sure their vehicles are properly locked.

Some tips on how to avoid becoming a victim of remote jamming:

• Never leave items of value/interest lying in the car – especially not on the seat or other visible spots.
• Always try to park in a secure parking lot, preferably one where there is visible security on duty.
• Always make sure your car is locked – never walk away from it and just press the button. Lock it and physically check the doors to see if they will open.
• Never leave house keys or important documents and paperwork in your car.
• Never leave your car’s registration papers in the vehicle.
• If you do not have an alarm system, have one installed.
• Ensure that you have adequate insurance cover for the contents of your vehicle.
• Be aware of the surroundings at all times and take note of suspicious persons or activity in and around the parking area.
• Report suspicious activity to centre management or security.
• Ensure the boot is locked.

So never assume your car is locked just because you pressed the button. Make sure and keep yourself from becoming another statistic.

>>  Expect to find the latest trends in Health, Wellness and Beauty in Ballito.

>> Meet the top players in the North Coast property industry. See our Property People feature.

Do you want to receive news alerts via WhatsApp? Send us a WhatsApp message (not an sms) with your name and surname to 061 718 4438.

Please read our WhatsApp broadcast list disclaimer.
Join us on BBM at 59015786
Join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.