In Victoria, a notable rise in vehicle thefts has emerged, with criminals employing advanced technology to target specific car models, according to police. Reports indicate that cars are increasingly being stolen from public areas such as residential streets and driveways, without any signs of burglary or robbery. While some victims leave their car keys inside, many owners have found their vehicles missing even when they secured their keys.
Police estimate that up to 20% of stolen cars in Victoria fall under these circumstances. The use of third-party electronic devices, which have been a trend in countries like the US and UK for years, is now becoming prevalent in Australia. These devices can easily be acquired and are capable of programming or mimicking car keys. Once inside the vehicle, thieves can plug the device into the diagnostic port to disable the security system and start the engine, leading to a significant increase in vehicle crimes.
Among the most targeted vehicles are popular makes such as Toyota and Subaru. For instance, thefts of Holden Commodores surged by 92%, while Toyota models like the Landcruiser and Prado experienced a 76% increase. Likewise, Subaru thefts jumped dramatically by nearly 108% in the same period.
This spike in vehicle thefts is the highest Victoria has witnessed since 2003. In the year leading up to September 2024, 25,773 vehicles were reported stolen—a staggering 6,408 more than the previous year. While the authorities have apprehended various individuals using these high-tech devices, they stress the importance of vigilance among vehicle owners.
Detective Inspector Julie MacDonald advises owners of potentially affected vehicles to explore various measures to enhance their car security. A range of anti-theft products is available at auto shops and online, with expert assistance on hand to determine the most suitable options. Additionally, vehicle owners are encouraged to consult with their car manufacturers or insurance providers for further security advice.