CCTV footage has been released showing thieves using a ‘relay’ device in Elmdon, which receives a signal from the victim’s key inside their home, to steal a car.
West Midlands Police believe it is the first time the high-tech crime has been caught on camera.
The video shows two men pulling up outside the victim’s house, both carrying relay boxes. The devices are capable of receiving signals through walls, doors and windows, but not metal.
In the footage, one of the men can be seen waving a relay box in front of the property.
The box receives a signal from the key inside and transmits it to the second box next to the car.
The car’s systems are then tricked into thinking that the key is present and so it is unlocked.
The thieves then drive off, with the whole crime taking just one minute.
The Mercedes has not been recovered following the theft, which happened September 24.
Mark Silvester, from the West Midlands Police crime reduction team, said: “To protect against this type of theft, owners can use an additional tested and Thatcham-approved steering lock to cover the entire steering wheel.
“We also recommend Thatcham-approved tracking solutions fitted to the vehicle.
“It is always worth speaking to your main dealer, to ensure that your car has had all the latest software updates and talk through
security concerns with them.”
Sergeant Tim Evans, from Solihull Police, said: “It’s important the public are reassured that we are taking proactive steps to tackle this type of crime in Solihull.
“We hope that knowledge of this type of crime will enable members of the public to take simple steps to secure their vehicle and assist us.”
Anyone with information on the Elmdon theft should call police on 101, quoting crime reference number 20SH/204842W/17.
