Christelle Fourie, Managing Director of MUA Insurance Acceptances
Motorists are being urged to physically check that their motor vehicles are properly locked when they leave their vehicle, even if they use a remote, following a spate of reported break-ins with no visible forcible entry.
According to Christelle Fourie, Managing Director of MUA Insurance Acceptances, the principle behind the scam is that some third party remote controls reportedly interfere with a vehicle’s remote control if both are used at the same time. “It is believed that these remotes are set to the same frequency as some manufacturer’s remotes, which then jam the vehicle’s remote control frequencies, preventing the electronic central locking system from operating successfully.”
“It is alleged that the ‘thieves’ watch someone arrive and once they are out of the vehicle press their remote and hold it down, jamming the remote control locking mechanism of the vehicle. When the owner attempts to “lock” their vehicle the signal is jammed and the vehicle remains unlocked, though the owner is none the wiser.”
Fourie says that while there is still no absolute clarity on the truth behind some of these claims, consumers should take extra caution when exiting their vehicle as theft with no sign of forcible entry is often repudiated by insurers.
“Whether an insurance company will pay out on such a claim is highly uncertain and would of course vary greatly between insurers and policies. However, for a claim to be successful the insurer would likely request some form of proof from the client, which is particularly tricky unless you not only happen to park in view of a security camera but are also able to obtain the footage which supports your version of events.”
“We have heard of examples of insurers obtaining CCTV footage after receiving such a claim and then seeing someone open a car and steal the contents. However, it is advisable for all consumers to double check that their vehicle has been properly locked before walking away.”
Fourie says best practice would be not to leave anything of value in the vehicle, however, if it is necessary to do so then it is important to make sure that nothing is visible. “For example, in the case of SUV’s and station wagons, there is usually a cover that can be pulled over the boot area to hide any items left in the car.While it is more costly, it may also be advisable when your client is looking to purchase a new car, to suggest that they consider extra security features such as smash and grab film on the windows.”
“Most of us are guilty of pressing the remote as we walk away from our vehicle on the assumption that it will simply lock the car, without taking the time to check. However by being extra cautious one can hopefully avoid the need to claim – whether through forgetfulness or as the result of a scam,” concludes Fourie.
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