Latest news with #LeaseLoco
South Wales Guardian
5 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
5 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
6 days ago
- 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!'
Scottish Sun
22-04-2025
- Automotive
- Scottish Sun
Urgent warning to homeowners over little-known ‘loophole' that allows neighbours to park on your driveway for free
Neighbours can legally park on your driveway - but what can you do about it? DRIVEWAY DISPUTE Urgent warning to homeowners over little-known 'loophole' that allows neighbours to park on your driveway for free HOMEOWNERS are being warned over a little-known parking loophole that could leave you fuming. Experts have raised the alarm after revealing there's no law stopping people from leaving their motor on someone else's private drive - and shockingly, even the council or police might not step in. Advertisement 3 A car leasing comparison site has issued a warning to homeowners over a 'legal grey area' which could see strangers leave vehicles on their driveways Credit: Getty 3 Motorists who have their own driveways have been cautioned about a "clear violation" that isn't a criminal offence Credit: Getty Drivers have been slapped with a warning over a bizarre legal loophole that could see complete strangers park on your private driveway - and get away with it scot-free. Experts at car leasing site LeaseLoco have raised the alarm, revealing there's no law to stop cheeky motorists from dumping their car on your property, even though it's a 'clear violation' of personal space. Boss John Wilmot said: 'Many homeowners are shocked to discover that a stranger parking in their driveway isn't 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." Advertisement So, what's the solution? John suggested: "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. "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." He added: "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. Advertisement "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." He urged Brits to take action now to stop unwelcome drivers, especially in packed neighbourhoods where it could become a regular nightmare. Drivers face instant $1,000 fine under newly passed 'Kepp's law' – common road mistake will bring hefty fees Meanwhile, millions of Brits could be breaking the Highway Code every single day - just by the way they park on their own driveway. Motor experts have issued a warning to homeowners, revealing that pulling in forwards instead of reversing could land you in hot water for 'careless' driving. Advertisement According to the Highway Code, reversing into your driveway is safer and reduces the risk of hitting a pedestrian or another road user - but it's a rule many admit they're clueless about. Car pros at Yell branded the mistake a 'bad habit' that's gone under the radar, urging drivers to think twice before swinging their motors in nose-first. Most common illegal driving activities Here's a list of reckless driving behaviour and the fines and penalties you risk getting from it. Using phone while driving A cheeky glance at a phone screen will result in six penalty points on your licence and a £200 fine. New drivers might lose their licence if caught doing so within two years of obtaining it. A cheeky glance at a phone screen will result in six penalty points on your licence and a £200 fine. New drivers might lose their licence if caught doing so within two years of obtaining it. Speeding Lovers of fast and furious will end up with a minimum of three points and a £100 fine. Lovers of fast and furious will end up with a minimum of three points and a £100 fine. Running a red light This offence will incur three points and £100 fine. This offence will incur three points and £100 fine. Middle lane hogging It constitutes careless driving and police will hand you a £100 fine with three penalty points. It constitutes careless driving and police will hand you a £100 fine with three penalty points. Undertaking This could possibly result in three points on your licence and a £100 fine. The experts said: "It's a habit many drivers don't think twice about - pulling straight into the driveway after a long day, ready to head inside and relax. "But did you know that this common parking manoeuvre could actually go against Highway Code guidance? Advertisement "According to the rules of the road, drivers should reverse into their driveways rather than driving in forward and reversing out later. "While there's no specific law against it, reversing onto a busy road can be seen as careless and inconsiderate driving, especially if it causes an obstruction or puts other road users at risk."
The Sun
22-04-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
Urgent warning to homeowners over little-known ‘loophole' that allows neighbours to park on your driveway for free
HOMEOWNERS are being warned over a little-known parking loophole that could leave you fuming. Experts have raised the alarm after revealing there's no law stopping people from leaving their motor on someone else's private drive - and shockingly, even the council or police might not step in. 3 3 Drivers have been slapped with a warning over a bizarre legal loophole that could see complete strangers park on your private driveway - and get away with it scot-free. Experts at car leasing site LeaseLoco have raised the alarm, revealing there's no law to stop cheeky motorists from dumping their car on your property, even though it's a 'clear violation' of personal space. Boss John Wilmot said: 'Many homeowners are shocked to discover that a stranger parking in their driveway isn't 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." So, what's the solution? John suggested: "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. "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." He added: "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." He urged Brits to take action now to stop unwelcome drivers, especially in packed neighbourhoods where it could become a regular nightmare. Drivers face instant $1,000 fine under newly passed 'Kepp's law' – common road mistake will bring hefty fees Meanwhile, millions of Brits could be breaking the Highway Code every single day - just by the way they park on their own driveway. Motor experts have issued a warning to homeowners, revealing that pulling in forwards instead of reversing could land you in hot water for 'careless' driving. According to the Highway Code, reversing into your driveway is safer and reduces the risk of hitting a pedestrian or another road user - but it's a rule many admit they're clueless about. Car pros at Yell branded the mistake a 'bad habit' that's gone under the radar, urging drivers to think twice before swinging their motors in nose-first. Most common illegal driving activities Here's a list of reckless driving behaviour and the fines and penalties you risk getting from it. Using phone while driving A cheeky glance at a phone screen will result in six penalty points on your licence and a £200 fine. New drivers might lose their licence if caught doing so within two years of obtaining it. Speeding Lovers of fast and furious will end up with a minimum of three points and a £100 fine. Running a red light This offence will incur three points and £100 fine. Middle lane hogging It constitutes careless driving and police will hand you a £100 fine with three penalty points. Undertaking This could possibly result in three points on your licence and a £100 fine. The experts said: "It's a habit many drivers don't think twice about - pulling straight into the driveway after a long day, ready to head inside and relax. "But did you know that this common parking manoeuvre could actually go against Highway Code guidance? "According to the rules of the road, drivers should reverse into their driveways rather than driving in forward and reversing out later. "While there's no specific law against it, reversing onto a busy road can be seen as careless and inconsiderate driving, especially if it causes an obstruction or puts other road users at risk." 3
