Armed with a simple bit of equipment, available to buy online, criminals can programme their own key fob, circumventing a car’s security system and allowing them to simply drive it away.

A criminal simply needs to smash the window to gain access to a car. Once inside they plug in a small device, which should only be available to car dealers or locksmiths, into the car’s diagnostic port which is present on all modern cars. This then connects to the car’s computer and provides the thieves with the access codes needed to program a blank key fob which is held closely to the device. As soon as this is done all the car’s security systems have been negated and the thieves are then in control of the car. 

Security experts and police sources also tell of alarming increases in thefts of vehicles with keyless entry systems. Simon Ashton the industry liaison officer at the Metropolitan Police Stolen Vehicles Unit said: 'New, in-car technology offer drivers a huge range of benefits, but it’s easy to be blind to the potential risks that come with it. Criminals are finding new ways to get around the security added to a car and exploit any weaknesses. The message is clear – protect your vehicle with everything you can, rather than simply relying on the features that come with the vehicle.'