Beware of remote jamming
The South African Insurance Association has confirmed remote jamming is the second most common way for thieves to gain access to vehicles.
Remote jamming has become prevalent, especially at shopping malls.
In an attempt to reduce theft out of motor vehicles, members are warned to ensure their vehicles are properly locked before leaving it in the hands of these criminals.
Remote jamming occurs when a second party gains access to the vehicle for the purpose of theft by interfering with the remote locking mechanism.
“Remote jammers prevent a vehicle from being locked by the driver’s remote and enable thieves to get into a vehicle and make off with valuables in less than 20 seconds,” Mike Venter from Community Crime Watch Newcastle (CCWN) warned.
The advantage to the thief is that the jamming can be activated from a distance without the driver realising it, as the remote will still appear to be active.
“There are usually two or three people involved,” said Mr Venter. “They often use cell phones to communicate.”
The driver would be none the wiser, until he returns to his vehicle, only to find it unlocked and valuables missing, or even worse, the vehicle stolen.
The South African Insurance Association (SAIA) confirmed remote jamming is the second most common way of stealing from a vehicle.
What is alarming is that household remote control devices use the same radio frequency as cars.
“Any household remote control, such as garage and gate door remotes, can be used to block the signal of most motor vehicle remote control devices,” warned Mr Venter.
