Crime prevention message

Good Evening,

Unfortunately, South Wales Police have received an increase in reports of vehicle crime in the Cathays area. Particularly around Maindy Road, Cwmdare Street, Brithdir Street and Gelligaer Street.

With the Christmas season fast approaching, we know that means more vehicles in and around Cardiff. With these vehicles, unfortunately comes more opportunist crimes.

When leaving your vehicle please do remember the following:

Alternatively, please visit our website for further crime prevention advice: Prevent theft from a vehicle | Crime Prevention | South Wales Police

Keyless Vehicles

Modern cars often have keyless entry systems which allow drivers to open and start their vehicle without physically pressing a button or turning a key, if the fob is nearby. While this feature provides added conveniences, it has also introduced a security vulnerability that opportunists have learned to exploit. This is known as a ‘relay theft/attack’.

A relay theft typically involves two thieves working together. One stands by the target vehicle while the other waits close to the house with a device that can pick up the key fob's signal. Once the key frequency has been detected, this signal is relayed to another device held near the vehicle, tricking the car into thinking the key is nearby, automatically unlocking the vehicle doors, and allowing the thieves to start the engine. 

If your vehicle is keyless, please do consider buying a ‘Anti-Theft Car Key Signal Blocker’. This works by isolating the key fob radio frequency system within the key which prevents signal relay thefts.

If you have experienced this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.south-wales.police.uk, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101. In an emergency, always call 999.

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