Santam has warned of a resurgence in vehicle theft and hijacking in South Africa, with a particular increase in claims of high-end vehicles with keyless entry features through both hijacking and car remote jamming methods.
Car remote jamming is an ongoing issue in the country, regularly rearing its ugly head as motorists let down their guard.
It refers to when thieves jam the signal sent from the key fob to the car, which stops the doors from locking when the owner presses the “lock” button.
The sophisticated interference devices used in these crimes can influence various types of wireless equipment, including alarm panels, cellphone communication, detectors, fleet tracking systems, and radio reporting to a control room.
“At Santam, we have seen a significant rise in crime-related vehicle claims for both theft and hijacking with the trend continuing to worsen over the last two years, particularly for high-value vehicles,” said Marius Kemp, Head of Personal Lines at Santam.
“We have also noted an increase in claims for the theft of certain keyless vehicles through both hijacking and car jamming methods.”
With the rise in popularity of keyless vehicles, criminals have also adapted their modus operandi accordingly, said Kemp.
They often work in pairs; one remains close to the vehicle and the other follows the driver to intercept the radio wave signal sent from the keyless remote to the receiver unit.
Sedans, hatchbacks, and coupes, as well as bakkies and panel vans, are the most likely vehicles to be targeted in hijacking and theft incidents, according to the Police Services’ (SAPS) latest crime statistics report.
This coincides with data from Fidelity that identified 13 high-risk vehicles for which criminals have shown a particular zeal:
- Ford Ranger
- Hyundai i20
- Nissan Almera
- Nissan NP200
- Toyota Corolla Cross
- Toyota Corolla
- Toyota Etios
- Toyota Fortuner
- Toyota Hilux
- Toyota Prado
- Toyota Land Cruiser
- Toyota RAV4
- VW Polo
These models are targeted for a specific purpose, such as to strip for parts for selling on the black market, or to smuggle across the border into the rest of Africa.
Military-grade car key signal jammers confiscated from suspected thieves. Source: SAPS
Remote jamming hotspots
The main hotspots for car remote jamming attacks in South Africa remain shopping centres, parking lots, and petrol stations, said Charnel Hattingh, Fidelity Head of Marketing and Communications.
Furthermore, she warned that thieves have gotten so brazen that they are no longer leaving the areas after committing their crimes. Instead, they stand around blending into the crowd to wait for their next target.
“While security guards and car guards are on high alert for these criminals, remember it is effortless for the thieves to approach a car, open it, pop the boot, take what they want, and walk off. They’re not breaking into a car; they aren’t even concerned about what car security devices or vehicle anti-theft systems you may have,” said Hattingh.
“A passerby may think the thief is the owner of the car – if they notice them at all. And, they breeze through access control systems when they drive out because they seldom draw attention to themselves.”
The crime isn’t limited to just the theft of valuables out of cars, either.
“These criminals are not only committing theft out of motor vehicles but also theft of motor vehicles, hijacking of vehicles/trucks and cargo, and house and business robberies by using remote jamming,” said Hattingh.
She adds that there is often no damage or signs of forced entry after a remote jamming attack, and insurance companies can therefore refuse to cover the stolen items unless you are with an insurer that clearly stipulates it will protect you against such incidents.
Camera footage from CCTV at service stations or mall security may support your case but don’t guarantee a pay-out.
Hattingh provided the following tips to help motorists avoid falling victim to remote jammers:
- Check your doors to see if they are locked before walking away. If your door opens, get in and drive away, chances are the criminals have targeted you.
- Be aware of your surroundings and suspicious people loitering around the parking area or sitting in cars.
- Look around as you drive in and before you park, and report suspicious-looking people to security or move your car to a safer place.
- Remember when you open your boot, everyone 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.
- Never leave valuables in plain sight in the car.
- Always park in the safest location, where there are many other cars and security guards.
- Think about real-time car GPS tracking for added peace of mind.
“As thieves become increasingly resourceful, it is up to vehicle owners to ensure their vehicle and belongings remain safe,” concludes Hattingh.
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