Organised criminal gangs are increasingly targeting high-end cars with keyless security systems, a UK motoring industry group has warned.
The thieves are able to bypass security using equipment intended only for mechanics, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) said.
Manufacturers are trying to stay ahead of the thieves by updating software.
It has been reported that some London-based owners of Range Rovers have been denied insurance over the issue.
The warnings echoed those made by the US National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), which earlier this year said it had seen a “spike” in car thefts involving equipment to spoof keyless entry. Keyless entry and ignition typically works by the driver keeping a fob on their person which automatically opens the car and activates it so it can be driven.
As the popularity of keyless systems has increased, criminals have been buying equipment online that is able to re-programme keys.
“The criminal act of stealing vehicles through the re-programming of remote-entry keys is an on-going industry-wide problem,” said Jaguar Land Rover.
“Our line-up continues to meet the insurance industry requirements as tested and agreed with relevant insurance bodies.
“Nevertheless we are taking this issue very seriously and our engineering teams are actively working in collaboration with insurance bodies and police forces to solve this continuously evolving problem.”
The statement added: “This has already resulted in a number of prosecutions.”
A specific case reported by The Times involved insurers AIG refusing insurance cover to a motorist. In a statement the company said it treated every case individually.
“We do not have a blanket policy to exclude certain vehicles from cover.
“Given the increasing likelihood that replacement vehicles may be a target for thieves we may ask for additional security measures such as secure off-road parking.”
