Dear Resident

Advice issued following vehicle theft scam

Drivers looking to sell their vehicles are being warned about a recent scam which has led to victims in Hertfordshire having their vehicles stolen.

There have been a number of reports of victims who have been attempting to sell vehicles through various online selling sites and have ended up having their vehicle stolen.

The offenders turn up to view the vehicles for sale, mostly Mercedes, and then completing a key swap. The victims have been led to believe that they still retain the original or spare key, and the offenders have arranged to make an offer the following day. However, the offenders then return later and use the stolen key to steal the vehicle.

Hertfordshire Constabulary are urging residents to remain vigilant and if you are planning to sell your vehicle make sure you don’t leave your vehicle or key unattended with any prospective buyers. Also don’t agree to meet a buyer alone, always take someone with you if you are meeting away from your home.

There are a number of steps you can take to help protect yourself from vehicle theft. 

• Firstly, always lock your vehicle even if you are just fuelling up or popping back into your house to get something.

• Keep your keys safe and if you have a keyless entry vehicle, protect the fob in a Faraday bag to block the signal.

• Fit a good quality steering lock is also a good idea. You can also invest in a gear lever or clutch pedal security device to give your vehicle added protection.

If you have information about vehicle theft you can report it online at herts.police.uk/report, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat at herts.police.uk/contact or call the non-emergency number 101.

Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org.

Join our community messaging platform Herts Connected at hertsconnected.co.uk. You will receive free local police messages and Neighbourhood Watch, Action Fraud and the Police and Crime Commissioner if that’s what you choose when you sign up.