New Government Law Will Make Thieves’ Lives More Complicated
In a decisive move to combat the rising tide of vehicle thefts, the UK government has introduced new legislation aimed at disrupting the tools and tactics employed by modern car thieves.
Central to this initiative is the ban on possession, sale, and distribution of electronic devices—such as signal jammers—commonly used to facilitate vehicle thefts. This law not only imposes stringent penalties but also shifts the burden of proof onto individuals found with such devices, marking a significant shift in the legal landscape surrounding vehicle security.
The Escalating Threat of Electronic Theft Devices
In recent years, vehicle theft has evolved with the advent of sophisticated electronic devices. Criminals have increasingly turned to gadgets like signal jammers and keyless repeaters to exploit vulnerabilities in modern vehicles, particularly those with keyless entry systems. These devices can intercept or block signals from remote locking systems, allowing thieves to unlock and start vehicles without the owner’s key.
The prevalence of such methods is alarming. According to the 2022/23 Crime Survey for England and Wales, offenders manipulated signals from remote locking devices in 40% of vehicle thefts. The Metropolitan Police Service estimates that, in London, signal jammers are used in approximately 60% of vehicle thefts. These statistics underscore the urgent need for legislative intervention to curb the misuse of these electronic tools.
Key Provisions of the New Legislation
The newly introduced Crime and Policing Bill addresses the issue head-on by criminalizing the possession, sale, and distribution of devices designed to facilitate vehicle theft. Under this law, individuals found in possession of such devices, or those who have imported, manufactured, adapted, or distributed them, could face up to five years in prison and an unlimited fine. Notably, the legislation shifts the burden of proof onto the individual, requiring them to demonstrate that the device was intended for legitimate purposes to avoid prosecution.
Previously, prosecution for handling these devices was only possible if it could be proven that they had been used to commit a specific crime. The new law removes this hurdle, enabling law enforcement to take preemptive action against individuals possessing these tools, thereby disrupting potential criminal activities before they occur.
Impact on Organized Crime and Vehicle Theft Rates
Vehicle theft is not just a crime of opportunity but is often orchestrated by organized crime groups. The demand for stolen vehicles and parts makes this a lucrative enterprise for criminals. By restricting access to the electronic devices that facilitate these thefts, the government aims to dismantle the operational capabilities of these groups.
The statistics highlight the severity of the issue. There were 732,000 incidents of vehicle-related theft in the year ending September 2024. The Metropolitan Police Service estimates that, in London, signal jammers are used in approximately 60% of vehicle thefts.
By targeting the tools that make these crimes possible, the legislation seeks to reduce these numbers significantly, thereby enhancing public safety and reducing the economic impact of vehicle theft.
How Moving Intelligence Protects Against Keyless and Electronic Theft
While this new law can be a big step in fighting vehicle theft, criminals will continue to steal cars and other vehicles. It will always be necessary for vehicle owners to stay ahead with the best and advanced protection as criminals will aways (try to) steal cars for all kind of purposes.
Moving Intelligence offers cutting-edge security solutions, such as immobilizers with jamming detection and Thatcham certified tracking, specifically designed to counter modern theft techniques and track your vehicles when stolen. With thieves constantly adapting their methods, investing in the latest vehicle security is more important than ever.
Which security solution is the best fit for your vehicle?
Find out more at Moving Intelligence Automotive Security.
For further insights into vehicle theft trends and the most targeted cars in the UK, check out our related articles:
• Car Theft in the UK: Where is Your Vehicle Most at Risk?
• Most Stolen Cars in the UK in 2024