Latest news with #JohnWilmot
South Wales Guardian
7 days ago
- Automotive
- South Wales Guardian
Does storing your car keys in a microwave prevent theft?
Usually, storing car keys in a kitchen may mean hanging them on a key holder or placing them in a dish. But a recent increase of motorists storing their car keys in a microwave has led to experts to express their concern. Yes, the trusty microwave has seen an increase in key storage overnight as it appears it's not only used for a quick re-heat of a midnight snack. Ofcom states that it's all down to the latest methods that crafty thieves are taking advantage of with keyless fobs. 'These keyless fobs use radio frequencies to communicate with your car, allowing it to unlock and start it when you have it in your possession,' Ofcom says. 'Sadly for car owners, thieves are sometimes able to use bits of tech that capture and amplify these frequencies in a way that helps them to gain access to your car. 'And if they can get near enough to the fob, for example by lurking close to your home or in your driveway, they can do this while it is inside your house – where you might think it's safe.' Because a microwave uses high-power radio waves to heat food, these can block the signal between your keys and car – but they're not the most ideal or safe solution. We spoke to experts from car leasing deals site LeaseLoco, who have been hearing about a rise in this peculiar trend. John Wilmot, CEO and founder of LeaseLoco, said: 'Thieves are becoming increasingly savvy when it comes to keyless car theft. 'Many modern cars use radio frequency signals to communicate with key fobs, which means criminals can use relay devices to capture and amplify these signals - even when the key is inside your home - to unlock and steal your vehicle. 'While it's true that microwaves are designed to block electromagnetic signals, using one as a storage place for your car keys is far from practical - and potentially dangerous. 'Microwaves are not a safe or recommended alternative to a proper signal-blocking solution.' It's easily done – you're in a rush and accidentally catch the timer on your microwave, or worse still, microwave a ready meal with your keys already inside. Mr Wilmot continued: 'If you forget the keys are inside and accidentally turn it on, you risk seriously damaging the fob's delicate electronics. Recommended reading: How you could get a roadside fine amid new DVSA changes HMRC How is car tax changing on April 1 2025 for drivers? DVLA issues warning to anyone who passed their driving test before 2015 'That could mean short circuits, melted components, or total failure, and repairs or replacements can run into the hundreds. 'Worse still, microwaving a key fob introduces a real fire hazard. The metal components inside could spark, potentially causing smoke, flames, or even damage to your microwave and home. 'The safer, more reliable option is a purpose-made RFID-blocking pouch or Faraday box. These are specifically designed to block key signals and protect your car from relay theft, without the risk of frying your keys!'
Western Telegraph
7 days ago
- Automotive
- Western Telegraph
Does storing your car keys in a microwave prevent theft?
Usually, storing car keys in a kitchen may mean hanging them on a key holder or placing them in a dish. But a recent increase of motorists storing their car keys in a microwave has led to experts to express their concern. Yes, the trusty microwave has seen an increase in key storage overnight as it appears it's not only used for a quick re-heat of a midnight snack. Why do people store car keys in the microwave? Ofcom states that it's all down to the latest methods that crafty thieves are taking advantage of with keyless fobs. 'These keyless fobs use radio frequencies to communicate with your car, allowing it to unlock and start it when you have it in your possession,' Ofcom says. 'Sadly for car owners, thieves are sometimes able to use bits of tech that capture and amplify these frequencies in a way that helps them to gain access to your car. 'And if they can get near enough to the fob, for example by lurking close to your home or in your driveway, they can do this while it is inside your house – where you might think it's safe.' Does putting car keys in the microwave block signal? Because a microwave uses high-power radio waves to heat food, these can block the signal between your keys and car – but they're not the most ideal or safe solution. We spoke to experts from car leasing deals site LeaseLoco, who have been hearing about a rise in this peculiar trend. John Wilmot, CEO and founder of LeaseLoco, said: 'Thieves are becoming increasingly savvy when it comes to keyless car theft. 'Many modern cars use radio frequency signals to communicate with key fobs, which means criminals can use relay devices to capture and amplify these signals - even when the key is inside your home - to unlock and steal your vehicle. 'While it's true that microwaves are designed to block electromagnetic signals, using one as a storage place for your car keys is far from practical - and potentially dangerous. 'Microwaves are not a safe or recommended alternative to a proper signal-blocking solution.' What happens if you accidentally microwave your car keys? It's easily done – you're in a rush and accidentally catch the timer on your microwave, or worse still, microwave a ready meal with your keys already inside. Mr Wilmot continued: 'If you forget the keys are inside and accidentally turn it on, you risk seriously damaging the fob's delicate electronics. Recommended reading: 'That could mean short circuits, melted components, or total failure, and repairs or replacements can run into the hundreds. 'Worse still, microwaving a key fob introduces a real fire hazard. The metal components inside could spark, potentially causing smoke, flames, or even damage to your microwave and home. 'The safer, more reliable option is a purpose-made RFID-blocking pouch or Faraday box. These are specifically designed to block key signals and protect your car from relay theft, without the risk of frying your keys!'
South Wales Argus
03-06-2025
- Automotive
- South Wales Argus
Does storing your car keys in a microwave prevent theft?
Usually, storing car keys in a kitchen may mean hanging them on a key holder or placing them in a dish. But a recent increase of motorists storing their car keys in a microwave has led to experts to express their concern. Yes, the trusty microwave has seen an increase in key storage overnight as it appears it's not only used for a quick re-heat of a midnight snack. Why do people store car keys in the microwave? Ofcom states that it's all down to the latest methods that crafty thieves are taking advantage of with keyless fobs. 'These keyless fobs use radio frequencies to communicate with your car, allowing it to unlock and start it when you have it in your possession,' Ofcom says. 'Sadly for car owners, thieves are sometimes able to use bits of tech that capture and amplify these frequencies in a way that helps them to gain access to your car. 'And if they can get near enough to the fob, for example by lurking close to your home or in your driveway, they can do this while it is inside your house – where you might think it's safe.' Does putting car keys in the microwave block signal? Because a microwave uses high-power radio waves to heat food, these can block the signal between your keys and car – but they're not the most ideal or safe solution. We spoke to experts from car leasing deals site LeaseLoco, who have been hearing about a rise in this peculiar trend. John Wilmot, CEO and founder of LeaseLoco, said: 'Thieves are becoming increasingly savvy when it comes to keyless car theft. 'Many modern cars use radio frequency signals to communicate with key fobs, which means criminals can use relay devices to capture and amplify these signals - even when the key is inside your home - to unlock and steal your vehicle. 'While it's true that microwaves are designed to block electromagnetic signals, using one as a storage place for your car keys is far from practical - and potentially dangerous. 'Microwaves are not a safe or recommended alternative to a proper signal-blocking solution.' What happens if you accidentally microwave your car keys? It's easily done – you're in a rush and accidentally catch the timer on your microwave, or worse still, microwave a ready meal with your keys already inside. Mr Wilmot continued: 'If you forget the keys are inside and accidentally turn it on, you risk seriously damaging the fob's delicate electronics. Recommended reading: 'That could mean short circuits, melted components, or total failure, and repairs or replacements can run into the hundreds. 'Worse still, microwaving a key fob introduces a real fire hazard. The metal components inside could spark, potentially causing smoke, flames, or even damage to your microwave and home. 'The safer, more reliable option is a purpose-made RFID-blocking pouch or Faraday box. These are specifically designed to block key signals and protect your car from relay theft, without the risk of frying your keys!'
Daily Mirror
23-05-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Mirror
What to do if someone parks on your drive - and it's not call police
The law around parking on private driveways can be a grey area and many homeowners may not know their rights One might assume that a quick call to the police or local council would swiftly deal with an unwelcome car parked on your driveway, but it's not that simple. Rule 243 of the Highway Code lists various no-go zones for parking, such as near school entrances, bus stops, within ten metres of a junction and spots that block emergency services. Yet, when it comes to private driveways, the issue is considered trespassing - a civil matter - leaving both police and council powerless to remove the vehicle from your property. In such a predicament, homeowners must resist the urge to move the car themselves to avoid potential charges of vandalism. The recommended course of action involves a calm chat with the vehicle owner, but if the nuisance persists, legal steps may be necessary. To sidestep these troubles, homeowners can use removable bollards, traffic cones, or expandable barriers to block access when they're out. Installing clear "No Parking" or "Private Driveway" signs, gates, or surveillance cameras can also help keep those pesky unauthorised parkers at bay. However, some savvy homeowners are cashing in by renting out their driveways. A recent survey has shown that nearly one in four Brits are either already hiring out their driveway space or mulling over the idea to rake in some extra cash, particularly when they're located near hotspots like stadiums, arenas and bustling city centres where parking is at a premium during major events. The trend is catching on big time among football fans, with residents near stadiums making a tidy sum by offering up their driveways for supporters' cars on match days. CEO John Wilmot said: "Many homeowners are shocked to find out that a stranger parking in their driveway is not actually a criminal offence, despite it being a clear violation of personal space. "This legal grey area can be frustrating, especially if you live in a busy area where it happens regularly, so it's important to take steps to prevent unwanted parking in the first place. "While the most effective way to protect your property is installing a driveway gate, putting out simple deterrents like parking bollards or posts, cones and signs can also help to prevent strangers from parking in your driveway. "On the flip side, if you live near venues or in busy areas, this situation can be turned into an opportunity, as you could allow other motorists to park in your driveway - on your own terms. "Renting out your driveway when you're not using it is becoming increasingly popular and can be a great way to earn some extra income. "If you do find yourself in a situation where you come home and see a stranger parking on your property, remember to never take matters into your own hands, or it can land you in serious trouble. Start off with a calm conversation, and if the issues persist, you may need to take legal action."
Daily Record
12-05-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Record
Drivers warned to grab a 20p piece to avoid £10K fine
Drivers must ensure this part of their car is legal but there's an easy trick to do that Motorists are being warned to do a simple '20p test' now or risk a fine of up to £10,000 and 12 points on their licence. Experts have said that checking the tread on tyres is crucial as low tread can increase stopping distances and lead to serious accidents. Under the Road Traffic Act, it's illegal to drive with tyres below the legal tread depth of 1.6mm, and motorists can be fined £2,500 per tyre and receive three penalty points each. But you don't have to have a mechanic check your tyres, it's something you can do yourself easily and it involves using a 20p coin. Tyre tread depth is essential for ensuring stability and grip on the roads and is particularly important when it comes to braking. The tread depth of a tyre should be a minimum of 1.6 mm, this requirement applies to the central three-quarters of the tyre's width and must be consistent around the entire circumference of the tyre. The motoring experts at are encouraging motorists to check their tyres using the 20p coin trick to ensure they are driving safely and legally. Simply place a 20p coin in the groove of the tyre; if you can't see the outer ring of the coin, it means the tyres meet the 1.6 mm requirement and you are safe to drive. If you can see the outer ring, then the tyres will need replacing before making any journeys. John Wilmot, CEO of car leasing comparison site said: 'Tyre tread depth is important because it is what helps your tyres grip to the road properly and provides stability. "If it is low, it can increase stopping distance which can ultimately lead to road accidents. 'A quick and easy way to check your tyres is by using the 20p hack. "Simply place a 20p coin into the grooves of the tyre, if the outer ring on the coin disappears then your tyres meet the requirement of being 1.6mm. 'However, if you can see the ring, you'll need to get these replaced before hitting the road.' John continues: 'Driving with tyres that do not meet the 1.6mm requirement is actually illegal. You'll face a fine of £2,500 per tyre and 3 points on your licence. 'To avoid this and ensure you'll have a safe journey, carry out the 20p hack on all four of your tyres as soon as you can.' You can be banned from driving if you have 12 points on your licence according to Your ban can last: 6 months, if you get 12 or more penalty points within 3 years 12 months, if you get a second disqualification within 3 years 2 years, if you get a third disqualification within 3 years
