NICB Warns Car Owners About Thieves Using Scanner Boxes

Recent news reports detailing the theft of personal items from locked cars by criminals using high-tech electronic devices may be alarming, but the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) says car owners can take some steps to protect themselves.

The key-less entry feature on newer cars is a popular advancement that lets drivers unlock their cars with the simple click of a button on a key fob using radio frequency transmission. The technology also helps prevent drivers from locking their keys in the vehicle.

Not surprisingly, thieves have found a way to partially outwit the new technology using electronic “scanner boxes.” These small, handheld devices can pop some factory-made electronic locks in seconds, allowing thieves to get into the vehicle and steal personal items left inside.

“Our law enforcement partners tell us they are seeing this type of criminal activity and have recovered some of the illegal devices,” said NICB President and CEO Joe Wehrle. “And unfortunately, some of these devices are available on the Internet.”

Source: NICB