New Law Bans Signal Jammers to Combat Keyless Car Thefts

New rules target thieves using gadgets to steal cars. People caught with signal jammers could face five years in jail. The law bans owning, selling, or giving away these devices. They block car locks, letting thieves enter without keys, and organized crime gangs often use them on fancy cars.

Last year, some guys got caught stealing cars this way. They stole over 50 cars worth about £4 million and used a “master device” to unlock a Bentley. Right now, you must prove they used the gadget for crime, but the new law shifts the burden of proof to the device owner.

The Home Office says lots of vehicle thefts occurred, estimating about 732,000 cases over the last year. A survey found signal manipulation in 40% of vehicle thefts. London police think jammers are used in 60% of car thefts.

A policing minister said thefts harm victims a lot, as they need their cars for daily routines. Police also stated concern because using electronic devices is common. A police chief supports this change to the law because she said these gadgets only help criminals. Reducing them helps police stop vehicle theft, and this theft hurts people and businesses badly.