The number of vehicles thefts has surged in Hertfordshire compared to 2022.

An increase of 11 per cent has been seen during the period of April 1 to August 9, 2023, when compared to the same period last year.

Hertfordshire police believe that "signal jacking devices" are being utilised by thieves, to clone vehicle-owner's key fob signals.

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Dacorum, Three Rivers and East Herts areas saw the biggest increase, as listed below:

  • Dacorum: 140 offences compared to 66 in 2022. An increase of 112 per cent.
  • Three Rivers: 85 offences compared to 49 in 2022. An increase of 75 per cent.
  • East Herts: 95 offences compared to 76 in 2022. An increase of 25 per cent.

Darren Cowell, a Hertfordshire Constabulary crime prevention officer, said: "There’s been an increase in vehicle thefts this year.

"Keyless entry vehicles have been targeted by criminals using signal jacking devices, which can pick up the fob signal and use it to unlock and start vehicles.

                                                                                            

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"Using a signal blocking fob pouch or storing your fob in a metal box will help prevent theft of keyless vehicles.

"Also using a good quality steering wheel lock can be an effective deterrent.”

Further crime prevention advice can be found on the Hertfordshire Constabulary website: www.herts.police.uk/protectyourvehicle