Keyless car theft in Northern Ireland: how relay theft works and the PSNI steps that can stop it

Keyless entry is convenient, but it creates a theft method that does not require a burglar to physically steal the key. The Police Service of Northern Ireland warns about relay theft, where criminals use electronic equipment to make the vehicle believe its key is nearby even when the fob is inside the house.

PSNI says thieves only need to get within a few metres of the key signal in some cases. That means a car parked on a driveway can be vulnerable if the key is left near a front door, window or other point close to the vehicle.

What is relay theft?

A keyless car normally looks for a nearby fob before unlocking or allowing the engine to start. In a relay attack, equipment captures and extends the communication between the car and the genuine key. To the vehicle, it can look as though the fob is standing beside the door.

The owner may still have both keys in the house when the vehicle is taken.

Move keys away from doors and windows

PSNI's first advice is simple: keep the main key and spare key away from the car, doors and windows. A key bowl beside the front door may be the worst possible place for a passive-entry fob.

Moving the keys deeper into the property reduces the chance of an attacker reaching the signal from outside.

Use a signal-blocking pouch properly

PSNI recommends a security pouch, commonly called a Faraday bag or signal blocker. The important part is whether it actually blocks the fob signal, not whether the product has the word “Faraday” printed on it.

Test the pouch periodically. Put the key inside, close it correctly and take it to the car. If the vehicle still unlocks or starts, the pouch is not doing its job.

Turn off the key signal if the manufacturer allows it

Some manufacturers let owners disable the wireless function or put the fob into a sleep mode. The process varies by make and model, so use the owner's manual or dealer guidance rather than random button combinations from social media.

Why a steering lock still has value on a modern car

Electronic theft methods are one reason old-fashioned visible security has become useful again. PSNI recommends steering-wheel locks and other physical devices. They add another problem for the thief even if the electronic security has been bypassed.

A strong visible lock may also make a neighbouring vehicle look like the easier target.

Protect the diagnostic port

PSNI also warns about key programming through the vehicle's On Board Diagnostic port. Once inside a vehicle, criminals can use specialist equipment on some models to programme a new key. A professionally fitted OBD guard or model-specific electronic protection can add another layer.

Check that the car actually locked

Signal jamming can stop a remote locking command reaching the vehicle. PSNI advises drivers to physically check the car has locked rather than walking away after pressing the button. Mirrors, lights and locking sounds can help, but the safest check is the actual door handle where appropriate.

What to do tonight

• Move both keys away from the front door and windows.
• Test any signal-blocking pouch you already own.
• Check whether the fob's wireless signal can be disabled.
• Use a visible steering lock where practical.
• Consider an OBD guard or tracker for a high-risk vehicle.
• Always confirm the car is physically locked.

No single security measure guarantees a car cannot be stolen. Layering electronic, physical and parking security is the point. For a vehicle that may cost tens of thousands of pounds, moving the keys and adding a tested pouch are unusually cheap first steps.