Thieves often scout driveways or vehicles in advance of a theft — especially when planning keyless or tow-away attacks. Spotting the early warning signs can help you act fast and protect your car before anything happens.
Common Warning Signs –
👀 Unfamiliar people or vehicles repeatedly driving or walking past your home at odd times
📸 Suspicious behaviour, such as someone taking photos of your car, driveway, or CCTV cameras
🧲 Strange marks or symbols near your drive or property (sometimes used to tag “high-value” targets)
🔩 Tampered locks, wheel nuts, or fuel caps indicating attempted access
📶 Interference with key fobs or alarm systems — a possible sign of relay device testing nearby
Digital & Electronic Red Flags –
📡 Car unlocks or relocks unexpectedly
🔋 Battery drains faster than usual due to repeated signal attempts
💡 Alarms triggering for no clear reason, often at night
Preventive Steps if You Notice Suspicious Activity –
🔒 Use telescopic or removable bollards to block the car from being driven away
📦 Store keys in Faraday pouches or metal boxes
📹 Review CCTV footage and adjust camera angles for full driveway coverage
📞 Report persistent suspicious activity to local police or neighbourhood watch
