Remote jamming rises as car thefts target high-value vehicles in South Africa

As South Africa faces a troubling rise in high-tech car theft, insurers and law enforcement are issuing urgent warnings to drivers. A resurgence in keyless vehicle theft, often facilitated by remote jamming devices, has led to a sharp increase in claims from car owners across the country. With criminals adapting swiftly to the rise of keyless technology, South Africans are urged to stay vigilant in public spaces.

“Car theft and hijacking trends have worsened over the past two years, particularly for high-end, keyless vehicles,” stated Marius Kemp, Head of Personal Lines at Santam, one of South Africa’s largest insurers. The company reported a notable increase in crime-related vehicle claims, fueled by criminals’ use of interference devices that prevent car doors from locking, allowing for quick, undetected entry.

This sophisticated “remote jamming” technique, which blocks the signal from a car’s key fob to its locking mechanism, is primarily occurring in parking lots, shopping centers, and petrol stations. “Thieves have become so brazen that they wait within the area, blending into the crowd until they find another target,” noted Charnel Hattingh, Head of Marketing at Fidelity. “They can appear as any other passerby, making it nearly impossible to distinguish them from genuine drivers or car owners.”

Statistics from the South African Police Service (SAPS) reveal a particular focus on high-demand models, including the Toyota Hilux, VW Polo, Ford Ranger, and Hyundai i20. These vehicles are often stolen for parts, or are moved across borders into other African countries. In collaboration with law enforcement, insurers like Santam are tracking these trends to identify “high-risk” vehicle models, aiming to inform drivers and protect potential targets.

The recent confiscation of military-grade jamming devices from suspected criminals underscores the sophistication of these theft operations. SAPS reports that criminals often work in pairs: one intercepts the signal from the driver’s key fob, while another stays near the vehicle, poised to unlock and steal it.

“While car guards and security staff are alert, it’s incredibly easy for thieves to approach, open a car, and take valuables unnoticed,” Hattingh warned. “To an onlooker, they may even appear as the car’s rightful owner.”

Security experts advise drivers to be aware of their surroundings and take extra precautions in high-risk areas. Hattingh recommended steps to prevent jamming attacks, such as physically checking that the doors are locked after pressing the key fob and considering GPS tracking systems for added security.

“As thieves become more resourceful, it’s essential for vehicle owners to stay one step ahead,” Hattingh emphasized. “Even basic security measures, like not leaving valuables in plain sight and parking near security, can help reduce the risk.”

With car theft in South Africa reaching concerning levels, these measures may be critical in avoiding costly losses and ensuring drivers’ safety. As Kemp concluded, “The best defense is always vigilance.”

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