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If you drive a car with keyless entry, you might be more vulnerable than you think. Relay attacks - where criminals use signal boosters to trick your car into unlocking - have become one of the most common and efficient methods of car theft in the UK.
The good news? One simple item can dramatically reduce the risk.
The Car Theft Crisis in the UK
According to DVLA data, an estimate of 60,900 cars were stolen in 2025 - equivalent to roughly seven vehicles every hour. Industry and insurance sources report that around 60–70 % of stolen cars in the UK were keyless models in recent years. Most credible analyses indicate an upward trend in car thefts from 2023 → 2025 and according to MotorEasy, there was an increase of 12.8 % from 2024 to 2025. Many of these were taken without a trace, with thieves exploiting the wireless signal emitted by keyless fobs.
It’s quick. It’s quiet. And it’s alarmingly easy with the right tech.
“These thefts aren’t just happening in high-risk areas. Quiet suburban streets have now become prime targets for criminals looking for easy getaways and they only need to be several meters from your key to do so.”
How Relay Theft Works
Relay theft typically involves two people working together. One stands near your front door or office wall to intercept the wireless signal from your car key inside. A second person stands by the car, using a signal repeater to “fool” the vehicle into unlocking and starting.
The entire process can take less than a minute - no physical break-in, no broken windows, and no noise.
Faraday Key Fob Bags: A Simple Way to Stop It
The most effective way to block this type of attack is to store your key fob in a Faraday bag - a small signal-blocking pouch that prevents the transmission of radio waves.
Not all Faraday bags are created equal, but this magnetic key fob bag stands out for a few key reasons:
- Strong magnetic closure to eliminate signal bleed
- Compact and discreet enough for everyday use
- Durable, tactical-grade materials
It’s also designed with aesthetics in mind - ideal for anyone who values both security and style!
Click here to Buy Magnetic Faraday Key Fob Bag
Most Stolen Cars in the UK (2025)
The following vehicles topped the list of the UK’s most stolen cars last year - many of which feature keyless entry systems:
|
Rank |
Vehicle Model |
Number Stolen |
|
1 |
Ford Fiesta |
3,511 |
|
2 |
Volkswagen Golf |
1,604 |
|
3 |
Ford Focus |
1,456 |
|
4 |
Toyota RAV4 |
1,328 |
|
5 |
Nissan Juke |
1,191 |
|
6 |
Land Rover Discovery |
1,160 |
|
7 |
BMW 3 Series |
1,131 |
|
8 |
Toyota C-HR |
962 |
|
9 |
Lexus NX |
946 |
|
10 |
Vauxhall Corsa |
880 |
If you own one of these, or any vehicle with keyless technology, it’s worth taking extra precautions.
Keyless Motorbike Theft
You might be wondering, as motorbikes are increasingly becoming keyless too, is there a significant risk of relay attacks?
Earlier industry estimates put annual motorcycle theft at around 34,000 incidents -equating to roughly 93 bikes stolen per day with about 80% taken from the owner’s property and 85% never recovered.
Unfortunately, there’s no industry or police statistic specifically showing how many motorcycles are stolen via keyless-relay or similar electronic attacks. Motorcycle theft data rarely distinguishes theft method, so statistics don’t say whether a bike was lifted, hot-wired, keyless-spoofed, or just stolen with the key.
Why motorbike keyless theft might be less prevalent than cars?
1. Physical removal is easier
2. Fewer bikes use passive keyless entry systems
3. Recorded theft data doesn’t isolate method
Perhaps the lack of data should be enough caution to keep any risk at bay and just have a Faraday Key Bag handy at all times.
Designed for the Tech-Savvy
One common complaint about many Faraday bags is that they’re bulky or unattractive. Fortunately, newer designs are available that cater to those who appreciate both function and form.
This magnetic Faraday bag is ideal for those who carry their keys alongside premium tech - think smart wallets, minimalist gear, or tactical EDC setups. It's even more effective when paired with complementary items like Faraday laptop sleeves and mobile pouches, offering full-spectrum protection against signal interception.
Rethinking Car Security
In a world where car theft has become increasingly digital, relying on traditional security just isn’t enough.
Whilst we recommend strongly that you invest in a high quality / tried and tested Faraday bag that also looks timeless, If you are on a tight budget and can only afford to go for a cheap, less attractive Amazon Faraday Key Fob Bag - then we'd absolutely recommend you do because after all, having something is better than nothing!
However, cheaper options are made of lower quality materials, manufactured quickly without guarantees of blocking signals effectively and not to mention, they don't block as a higher concentration of signals as the likes of SLNT do.
Most Faraday bags aren’t built to military specifications - SLNT is!
If you want to keep your vehicle safe without carrying unsightly key fob bags or relying on Luke warm guarantees, the SLNT Faraday Key Fob Bag is one of the smartest, simplest investments you can make.
