Victoria Police have seized more than 900 key cloning devices over the past year, with most recovered during raids and intercepts involving suspicious vehicles in Melbourne’s North West Metro policing region.
The small wireless gadgets can intercept and replicate signals sent by car keys, creating an additional set of keys without the owner’s knowledge. Police estimate more than 10,000 vehicles are stolen each year using the technology.
Almost half of the devices were found in the Melton, Whittlesea and Hume police service areas, according to police.
Subarus and Toyotas fitted with push-start engines have been identified as among the vehicles most at risk. Victoria Police have contacted owners of vulnerable vehicles with advice on protecting their property.
Detective Inspector Julie Macdonald, of the vehicle crime squad, said car theft remained a “significant concern” for police and the community.
“In the past year police have seized more than 900 key cloning devices from car thieves across the state – a stark reminder that offenders are turning to this technology to commit their offending,” she said.
“Car thieves only need one opportunity. We’re urging motorists to take away the opportunity and protect their vehicle.”
Police recommend fitting an on-board diagnostic port lock and using a steering wheel lock. Drivers are also advised to check that their vehicle is locked, including when it is parked at home, and to use off-street parking where possible.
Keys can be kept in specialist signal-blocking bags when they are not being used. Stolen vehicles can be checked and reported through the Victoria Police website.
