Unusual car theft method explained and how to stay safe
One of the most unusual ways cars have been stolen involves theft aimed at the trunk. The technique works by boosting the signal from a keyless entry system so the car believes the remote is inside the vehicle when it is actually elsewhere, sometimes at the thief’s home.
A thief, having targeted a home, arrives at night with discreet equipment and moves around the owner’s property to locate the key’s signal. The discussion here centers on a private residence. Reports from Germany describe a case where a homeowner shared camera footage on a social network to reveal what happened.
What appears in the footage is not a ghost but a hooded figure walking near the house holding a long cable that acts as an antenna. A bag worn around the neck resembles a suitcase and functions as a signal trap. A second thief waits near the victim’s car. When the key’s signal is detected, the thieves flee with the car, a feat that was thwarted only by the homeowner’s cameras; without the footage, suspicion might not have been raised.
Is protection possible against the suitcase theft technique? Police guidance is straightforward: wrap keys in aluminum foil to create a makeshift Faraday cage that blocks the signal. It is a simple, often effective safeguard. Additionally, authorities advise against leaving car keys at the front door, a common practice that can be exploited by thieves.
Note: this overview draws on reporting from automotive outlets and public safety advisories addressing modern car theft methods studied in Canada and the United States as well as Europe. It reflects practical steps verified by investigators to reduce risk and increase security for owners with keyless entry vehicles.
Visual reference is provided by public footage and industry reporting to illustrate how the attack unfolds and why simple precautions can make a significant difference.
All sources of information and analysis are cited in line with standard safety briefings and consumer protection guidelines to help readers understand the risk and respond effectively. The goal is to inform motorists about a real threat and offer practical, accessible measures to reduce exposure.
Photo context and dissemination notes are kept for reference within official safety communications and vehicle security literature. The emphasis remains on practical protection and awareness rather than sensational detail.
Security experts continue to stress awareness and preparedness, especially for owners of vehicles with passive or proximity-based access systems. Improvements in key management, parking habits, and daily routine can lower risk significantly.
There is ongoing discussion around evolving theft techniques and the best defensive practices. Readers are encouraged to stay informed through trusted safety channels and vehicle manufacturers’ recommendations, and to implement feasible protective steps to maintain security in daily life.
In sum, while the threat exists, careful key handling, signal shielding, and mindful parking behavior can substantially reduce the likelihood of a trunk-based relay theft.
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