Emerging Crime Trend

Dear Residents. 

I need to inform you all of an emerging crime trend in your area. 

2x theft of vehicle incidents has been reported. 1st offence occurred early hours of the 12th October on Pasture Crescent Knaresborough at approx 0134hrs in Morning.  Second incident occurred  similar time 0120-0130hrs on Lands Lane, Knaresborough. 

Both vehicles were FORD make. 

Both vehicles were stolen without keys. 

Both vehicles had key-less entry systems in place. 

We believe the offender(s) responsible may have used a device that is designed to capture the signal emitting from the car key and then imitate it, allowing the cars to be stolen. 

Please take steps to ensure this doesn't happen to you by adhering to below advice. 

Be mindful where you place your key in the house. 

With many new houses having short driveways and small footprints, it is possible the car is still within range of the radio signal from the key, making your car vulnerable. Make sure you keep the car key well away from your car when not in use, preferably on the opposite side of the house. The key's signal can transmit through walls. If you keep the key close to your outer walls on the ground floor you increase the risk of the signal being captured by criminals. Best place to keep your car key would be on the second floor near to the centre of the house. 

Alternatively, use a FARADAY BAG.  

keep your car key in a Faraday bag or box/safe container that blocks the key's signal. A Faraday bag is a small pouch that you put your key into. It can be purchased inexpensively on the internet.  

I advise you all to make yourself safe from this type of crime. 

Lets all be vigilant. 

If you have any information re the crimes mentioned in this message please do contact me by simply replying to this message.

Yours sincerley 

PC1893 Mike Spittlehouse

Harrogate Outer Safer Neighbourhood Team