UK to ban car theft devices as 700,000 break-ins fuel security crackdown

The UK government is moving to ban electronic devices used to steal cars, following a surge in keyless vehicle thefts. New laws will criminalize the possession, sale, and manufacture of signal jammers and keyless repeaters, which criminals use to bypass car security systems.

Last year, over 700,000 vehicles were broken into across England and Wales. High-tech theft methods accounted for 40% of these crimes nationwide; a figure that rises to 60% in London, according to the latest Crime Survey for England and Wales. Organized crime groups have increasingly exploited these vulnerabilities, driving concerns over rising auto theft rates.

Currently, police can only prosecute if they prove a device was used in a specific crime. Under the Crime and Policing Bill, the burden shifts to those in possession of such devices to justify their legal use. Violators face up to five years in prison or unlimited fines.

Dame Diana Johnson, the policing minister, called the move a “critical step” to curb the devastation caused by vehicle theft. “Victims rely on their cars for daily life—this law ensures we protect them,” she said.

Industry Pressure and Law Enforcement Support

Motoring groups argue car manufacturers must also strengthen security. AA President Edmund King praised the tougher penalties, saying, “Relay theft and signal jamming are far too common—this law gives police more power to fight car crime.”

Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Simms of the National Police Chiefs’ Council welcomed the crackdown, calling signal jammers an “easily accessible tool for criminals for far too long.” She added that the restrictions will help both police and industry prevent vehicle theft, a growing challenge for individuals and businesses alike.

The Crime and Policing Bill will be introduced to Parliament on Tuesday, marking a major policy shift in the fight against high-tech car crime.

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