Van Security: Key Hacking Devices To Be Made Illegal In UK
24/02/2025 09:21 Share
Van Security: Key Hacking Devices To Be Made Illegal In UK
Electronic devices used to break into vehicles are set to be banned in England and Wales under new laws being presented in Parliament this week.
So-called ‘signal jammers’ are believed to be responsible for around 40 per cent of all vehicle thefts in the UK – including vans – with this figure rising to 60 per cent in the worst hit area, London.
The devices, which can be configured to imitate signals between a remote key fob and the vehicle to unlock it or scramble a signal using an amplifier even when the fob is inside a person’s home, have been readily available to purchase legally for some years.
Until now, the police could only bring a prosecution provided evidence was presented that a device had been used to commit a specific offence.
However, under new laws in the Crime and Policing Bill, the emphasis will shift towards a person in possession of a device showing they have it for a legitimate purpose.
If not, anyone convicted of making or selling a signal jammer could face up to five years in jail or receive an unlimited fine.
The change in the law comes in the wake of large demonstrations organised by van drivers upset with the lack of action and soft penalties apportioned to criminals involved in vehicles break-ins and theft of tools.
Making signal jammers illegal "is a positive step"
It is hoped the new law will tackle the rise in organised crime groups, which have deferred to more sophisticated methods in recent years to exploit vulnerabilities in vehicle security, though manufacturers are being urged to close these loopholes at the production stage.
The move has been welcomed by AA president Edmund King: "This is a positive step, and these tougher sentences should make would-be thieves think again before stealing cars. Relay theft and signal jamming is all too frequent and these measures will give police forces more opportunities to tackle car crime."
The changes to the Crime and Policing Bill will be introduced to Parliament on Tuesday [25 Feb].
Key fob hacking is just one of the multiple methods employed by criminals in the break-in of vans and the theft of tools and goods. However, there are simple steps you can take to keep the thieves out and your belongings safe - READ MORE HERE
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