The Burbank Police Department warns of a rise in car thefts involving "key cloners," with criminals targeting newer vehicles with keyless ignitions, according to NBC Los Angeles. Authorities explained that these thieves are exploiting key fob signals, using devices that can scan and quickly create duplicates to gain access to cars.
These criminals employ tools akin to a cell phone or small tablet, which can capture key fob signals. After capturing these signals, the thieves can either clone the keys or, in some cases, even program new fobs by plugging them into a vehicle's system, the Burbank Police Department stated in a press release. As reported by KTLA, this method predominately afflicts keyless or remote ignition vehicles, which have become commonplace in new cars.
In the face of these increasingly sophisticated thefts, there's a heightened importance for residents to be vigilant. "Thieves are taking advantage of this newer technology by using an aftermarket device, about the size of a cellphone or tablet, to remotely scan for a key fob signal and quickly create a cloned key," the Burbank Police Department said on Facebook.
Officials are also advising the public to stay alert of suspicious behavior and promptly report any observed crimes or questionable activities to the Burbank Police Department at (818) 238-3000. For emergencies, the community is urged to call 9-1-1 immediately.
