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Relay Car Theft – Protect Your Vehicle
We want to make drivers across the North East aware of relay car thefts—a method used by organised criminals to steal keyless vehicles quickly and quietly.
What is Relay Theft?
Thieves use electronic devices to pick up the signal from your key fob inside your home and “relay” it to your car outside. This can unlock and start the vehicle in a matter of seconds, without the thieves ever having the key.
How to Protect Your Car:
Store keys securely
Keep key fobs well away from doors and windows.
Use Faraday pouches (see image), signal‑blocking boxes to prevent the signal from being captured.
Improve home and driveway security
Park in a locked garage if possible.
Consider using driveway posts, wheel clamps, or additional steering locks as visible deterrents.
Install lighting and ensure your CCTV or video doorbell is working properly.
Update your vehicle’s security settings
Check with your manufacturer for the latest security software updates.
Disable “keyless entry” if your vehicle allows it.
Be alert
Report any suspicious activity—such as individuals loitering near driveways or vehicles during the night—to Police Scotland via 101, or 999 in an emergency.
Taking a few simple precautions can significantly reduce your risk. Please share this information with family, friends, and neighbours to help keep our communities safe.
Stay vigilant. Stay secure.
Top Tips for Car security - /www.securedbydesign.com/guidance/crime-prevention-advice/vehicle-crime
#NorthEastCrimeReduction This messaging system is not for reporting crime as responses are not monitored 24/7. If you have time-critical information regarding the content of the above message, or if you wish to report any other non-urgent matter, please call 101. In an emergency, call 999.
Police Scotland's North East Division covers rural and urban areas in Moray, Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen City. The division has five territorial command areas which have their own dedicated Area Commander, who is responsible for the daily policing function. Each command area is served by a number of community policing teams whose activities are built around the needs of the local community. These teams respond to local calls and look for long term solutions to key issues. They are assisted by the division's Crime Reduction Unit who deliver against Force and local priorities in a number of areas, including physical and social crime prevention, supporting and enhancing community engagement and creating and sustaining strong and effective partnership working. 
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