Car break-ins are a growing concern, with thieves utilizing advanced technology to pinpoint valuables inside vehicles. This article delves into the alarming trend of Car Theft Using Scanners, exploring how these devices work and offering preventative measures to protect your belongings.
Criminals are increasingly relying on readily available technology to identify potential targets. Devices capable of detecting signals emitted from electronic devices, such as laptops, smartphones, and tablets, even when hidden, are being employed to scope out vehicles. Rob Enderle, principal analyst at the Enderle Group, explains how these signals can be easily tracked. “It might be as simple as using a smartphone to scan for Bluetooth signals. By detecting these signals, thieves can triangulate the approximate location of the device,” Enderle stated. 
Thieves using scanners to locate valuables in cars.
More sophisticated signal detectors, costing hundreds of dollars, can precisely pinpoint the source of electronic signals. Although designed for locating hidden surveillance equipment, these devices have found their way into the hands of criminals. These scanners enable thieves to quickly identify vehicles containing valuable electronics, increasing the likelihood of a break-in. One resident of San Francisco’s Marina District, Jacqui Lewis, described witnessing a string of car break-ins, highlighting the prevalence of this issue. “I saw five break-ins in a row one morning while walking home from work,” Lewis recounted.
Increased police patrols offered a temporary solution but proved ineffective in the long run. “While patrols deterred some crime, new break-ins occurred as soon as the police left,” Lewis observed. The underlying problem remains the vulnerability of vehicles to signal detection technology.
Fortunately, there are simple yet effective countermeasures to protect your car from tech-savvy thieves. Enderle recommends powering down electronic devices and removing their batteries when not in use. “A powered-down device cannot transmit signals. When in doubt, remove the battery to ensure it’s completely inactive,” Enderle advised. This straightforward precaution can significantly reduce the risk of your vehicle becoming a target. By eliminating the signals that attract thieves, you can effectively safeguard your valuables and deter potential break-ins. Taking proactive steps to protect your belongings is crucial in combating this growing threat of car theft using scanners.
