The Burbank Police Department warned residents Tuesday about a rise in “key cloner” vehicle thefts, where thieves use electronic devices to replicate key fobs and steal cars.
Criminals are exploiting keyless ignition technology by scanning for key fob signals and creating cloned keys, or plugging into a car’s system to program new fobs, police said.
“Thieves are … using an aftermarket device, about the size of a cell phone or tablet, to remotely scan for a key fob signal and quickly create a cloned key,” the department said in a statement.
Police urged residents to take precautions such as parking in secured areas, using motion-sensing lights and security cameras, storing key fobs in signal-blocking pouches and installing GPS tracking devices such as AirTags or Tiles.
Police also recommend checking with dealerships for possible security software updates.
Anyone witnessing suspicious activity is encouraged to call Burbank police at 818-238-3000.