We have seen a recent increase in vehicle breaks around your area - items of value have been taken from vehicles by opportunist thieves likely trying door handles of vehicles to see if they are open.

Do you have keyless entry/start or central locking? If so have you considered securing the signal your vehicle keys give out by using a faraday pouch or box? These handy little things block the signals to and from your keys (and contactless cards!) preventing your car from opening if you're not the one trying to get in it! It's surprising how far these signals travel, and thieves are now using signal boosters to increase the range and use it to get into vehicles.

Another good tip is to take out all of your personal items when you leave your vehicle. We are seeing thieves using bank cards they have stolen for multiple purchases under £100 once they have stolen these cards.

As part of the Thanet Community Safety Partnership, Thanet Community Safety Partnerships have been sending out vehicle crime safety advice, please see the picture below for some guidance, simple things that will make your vehicles less attractive to thieves.

Feel free to share this message to those not on MCV, or get in touch with me, or your local beat officer by replying to this message. Also please complete your local survey around what the priorities should be in your area for the Police to concentrate on, the link to the survey is below.

Thanks and stay safe!

Message Sent By
Paul Robson
(Kent Police, Sgt, Thanet Community Safety Unit Sgt)