According to Charnel Hattingh, Fidelity Services Group’s group Head of Marketing and Communications, remote jamming is nothing new but it’s not getting old for criminals either.

It is on the increase.

Remote jamming is when thieves jam the signal from the immobiliser to the car, so it doesn’t lock even when the owner presses the ‘lock’ button.

She highlights that remote jamming is prevalent in parking areas at shopping malls and petrol stations.

7 tips to avoid falling victim to remote jammers:

1. Never lock your car and walk away. Check the doors to see if they are in fact locked.

2. Be aware of your surroundings and of suspicious people loitering around the parking area or sitting in cars.

3. Look around as you drive in and before you park. Follow your gut instinct and report suspicious-looking people to security or move your car to a safer place.

4. Remember that when you open your boot everyone around you can see what’s inside, especially if they are eagerly waiting for this. A boot with a visible laptop or other valuables can make you an instant target.

5. Never leave valuables in plain sight in the car.

6. Always park in the safest location, where there are many other cars and security guards.