Important Alert: Surge in High-End SUV Thefts Using Relay Attack Technology

Dear Valued ZIB client,

The Insurance Crime Bureau (ICB) has recently issued an industry alert regarding a surge in the theft of new-model, high-end SUVs through the use of relay attack technology. According to the ICB, there has been a noticeable increase in these incidents, particularly in the Bloemfontein area, with organised criminal groups targeting vehicles fitted with keyless entry and keyless start systems.

 
Understanding Relay Attacks
Relay attacks enable criminals to electronically intercept and amplify the signal emitted by a vehicle's key fob, allowing them to unlock, start and steal a vehicle without having physical possession of the key.

 
The typical modus operandi involves:

• A suspect positioning themselves close to the vehicle owner.
• Specialised equipment capturing the signal from the key fob.
• The signal being relayed to an accomplice near the vehicle.
• The vehicle being unlocked, started and driven away.


What This Means for Your Clients
As trusted insurance advisors, brokers play an important role in helping clients understand emerging risks and take preventative action. We encourage you to share the following recommendations with clients who own vehicles equipped with keyless entry systems:

• Store vehicle keys away from doors, windows and other easily accessible locations.
• Consider using a Faraday pouch or signal-blocking key storage solution.
• Park vehicles in secure, well-lit areas whenever possible.
• Activate all available vehicle security features.
• Remain vigilant when in public areas, particularly when carrying vehicle keys.

These recommendations constitute general risk management guidance only. They do not amend, vary or override the terms, conditions or exclusions of any insurance policy and do not replace any tracking, vehicle security or other requirements applicable to the insured vehicle.

Article Source: www.cib.co.za
The original industry alert, titled "Surge In High-End SUV Thefts Using Relay Attacks", was issued by the Insurance Crime Bureau and highlights the increasing use of this theft method against newer vehicles that rely on proximity-based keyless entry and ignition systems.

If you have any queries for the above, please kindly do not hesitate to contact us.