Mayor Khan Calls for Enhanced Security Measures Against Keyless Car Theft
London is witnessing a troubling increase in vehicle thefts, with a reported 7.7% rise prompting Mayor Sadiq Khan to call on automotive giants such as Toyota, Jaguar Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, and Ford. The mayor’s appeal is a direct response to alarming Metropolitan Police data showing that keyless car thefts account for 60-65% of the 33,000 vehicles stolen in the past year.
Keyless vehicles, which use electronic fobs to unlock and start the car, are increasingly becoming targets for thieves. They exploit vulnerabilities in the car’s electronic systems through relay attacks, enabling swift thefts often right from the owners’ driveways.
The growing threat has cast a spotlight on the automotive industry’s cybersecurity, challenging manufacturers to bolster their defenses. The concern extends beyond the theft of the vehicles themselves to the potential compromise of personal data in connected cars, underscoring the need for advanced security measures to thwart hacking, data breaches, and other cyber threats.
Recent regulations, such as the UN Economic Commission for Europe Regulation 155, mandate automakers to adopt stringent cybersecurity protocols. These measures are essential for monitoring, detecting, and responding to cyber threats throughout the vehicle’s lifetime, ensuring compliance is integral for the legal sale and operation of their models.
Mayor Khan also pointed out the broader economic impact, particularly on insurance premiums. The spike in keyless thefts is pushing up costs for consumers, who are already grappling with the heightened theft risk. The insurance sector, factoring in vehicle security in premium assessments, advises owners to keep abreast of security updates and consider extra precautions like wheel locks.
Experts within the industry are calling for immediate action from car manufacturers, particularly with the increasing popularity of electric vehicles (EVs). Prioritizing vehicle security is deemed crucial for mitigating theft risks, potentially lowering insurance costs, and making EVs more attractive and affordable for a wider consumer base.
As the city tackles this rising challenge, the focus intensifies on innovative solutions and proactive measures to protect the evolving landscape of automotive technology and urban security.
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