LONDON: New data from the UK has recorded a sharp increase in the number of people searching for car security features to help reduce the risk of theft.
Analysis from eBay of its sales data between May 2022 and May 2023 showed that searches with the phrase ‘car security system’ increased by 136% in the period.
Similarly, Faraday products, which are used to help prevent keyless car thefts by blocking signals between the car key and vehicle, have also increased sharply. According to eBay, those looking for "Faraday box" has increased by 125%, while searches for "Faraday pouch" has jumped by 76%.
The analysis, which also looked at car security products such as more conventional steering locks and car immobilisers, was based on data from the UK.
"By studying purchases made on eBay and looking at just how many searches are made every day, it’s clear to see people want to do everything they can to protect their vehicle," Laura Richards, eBay category lead for Parts and Accessories, said.
"Having a car stolen can cause huge stress, but there are a huge range of items which can help prevent this, whether that’s to protect a cherished classic or a more modern model," Richards said.
“At a time when we see more reports of vehicles being stolen and more sophisticated methods, owners are looking at all the different accessories that can help protect their vehicle when it’s parked at their home.”
A separate analysis of data from the Office of National Statistics by AA Insurance Services showed that 130,389 had their vehicles stolen in 2022 – a 24.9 per cent increase on the previous year.
On most current keyless car systems, thieves can use a home-made radio extension to quickly open a car and drive it away, since any immobilisers and most alarm systems are bypassed.
Thieves can easily assemble these radio extension from everyday electronic parts, which can extend the radio connection between key and car up to 1 km, regardless of whether the original key is in the owner’s home or in a jacket pocket. - PA Media
