Car Theft Prevention: California Thieves go High Tech to Steal your Ride
Ahh, technology, the reason we’re cool in summer, connected to long lost crushes on Facebook and….hey, where’s my stuff? Thieves in California are turning to technology to steal the items you’ve secured in your car – and sometimes even the car itself, according to recent reports and warnings from the LAPD.
How Thieves Break into Cars
The electronic key fob that allows you to unlock your vehicle from afar also makes it easy for tech savvy thieves to gain access to your car, according to the LAPD. An inexpensive device called a power amplifier may be to blame for many recent break-ins. The device works by making an electronic bridge between the key fob and car – even when the fob is out of normal range.
By targeting cars that are parked nearby their owners, criminals simply point and click their way into the items stored inside. The proximity of your car to your keys when you are inside your home makes it easy for a power amplifier to boost the signal your key fob emits – and unlock the car in just seconds.
Officers from the LAPD point to a 35% increase in car break-ins this year and blame power amplification devices for the boost in these types of crimes. California car owners are at risk simply because they have a key fob and park their vehicle in their own driveway.
Car Theft Prevention: Put your Keys on Ice, Literally
How can you protect yourself from theft? Blocking the amplification device is a must. Short of building your own DIY Faraday cage, the easiest way to prevent high tech break-ins is in your own kitchen. Storing your keys inside the refrigerator or microwave will block any signals and prevent thieves from using a power amplifier to access your car. The thick metal lining of these appliances is enough to block the signal and protect your ride.
If you or someone you know has been accused of a crime – high tech or otherwise – our criminal defense team is here to help. A California criminal defense lawyer at the Law Offices of Lawrence Wolf can help you during this time. Protect yourself when you need help the most; call now at (310) 277-1707, or go to our website: www.youareinnocent.com
