Technology is a Crucial Ally in Combating Remote Jamming Incidents in South Africa says Grant Fraser, Group Managing Director of Netstar, a subsidiary of Altron. - Netstar

According to Netstar’s telematics data, there was a 16% rise in remote jamming alerts over the last 3 months, with Gauteng accounting for 33% of recorded incidences, followed by Kwa-Zulu Natal with 22%, and the Western Cape experiencing 13% of cases. The top three cities of remote jamming occurrences during this period were Pretoria, Johannesburg, and Durban, respectively.

​Car break-ins, often characterised by their elusive nature, have become a common place, leaving victims frustrated and law enforcement authorities grappling for solutions. Delving into the issue, Netstar Group MD, Grant Fraser, says the perpetrators, employing a methodical approach, navigate from one shopping mall to another, carefully choosing their targets.

Operating under the cloak of normalcy, they often drive luxury vehicles, blending seamlessly into their surroundings. Concealed within unassuming objects, such as a cigarette box, their jamming devices closely resemble everyday remote controls. By mimicking the frequency of a car’s remote, these devices disrupt the locking mechanism, rendering it ineffective once the owner steps away. Exploiting this window of opportunity, the criminals swiftly access the vehicle, leaving no trace of tampering on the vehicle, impacting the insurance claims process.

“In the battle against remote jamming, technology emerges as a crucial ally”, says Fraser. “Vehicle owners should explore advanced vehicle tracking solutions that provide an additional layer of defence. One such technology, provided by Netstar, detects signals emitted by potential jamming devices in the vicinity of targeted vehicles. The moment a jamming signal is detected, Netstar promptly alerts the owner via SMS, enabling immediate action to secure the vehicle. This proactive approach not only prevents losses but also plays a pivotal role in curbing insurance fraud, providing peace of mind to vehicle owners and insurers alike.” Fraser continues.

Further tips to mitigate remote jamming include:

• Listen and watch for the car locking signals: Pay attention to the sound your car makes when it locks and observe the lights flashing to confirm that it is locked. This way, you can be certain that your vehicle is secured before leaving it unattended.
• Physically check the door handle: Instead of solely relying on the remote locking mechanism, physically verify that your car is locked by trying to open the door using the handle. This ensures that the locking mechanism is functioning properly.
• Park close to shopping Centre entrances: Opt for parking spots that are closer to the entrance of shopping centres. These areas tend to have more people and increased security measures, such as surveillance cameras. The presence of crowds and security cameras can act as a deterrent to potential thieves.
• Move your car if you have trouble locking it: If you encounter any difficulties in locking your car or if you suspect any issues with the locking mechanism, it is advisable to relocate your vehicle to a safer spot. Alternatively, you may choose to leave altogether and seek assistance to address the problem.
• Stay aware of your surroundings: Always be mindful of your surroundings when parking your car. If you notice any suspicious individuals loitering around the parking area or behaving in a manner that raises concerns, inform the security personnel immediately. They can take appropriate action to ensure that the area is safe.

“By staying informed, adopting preventive measures, and leveraging cutting-edge technology solutions, vehicle owners can reclaim a sense of security and overall peace of mind”, Fraser concludes.