Car theft in Victoria has reached its highest levels since 2001, with over 32,000 cars stolen in 2025, a 96.9 per cent rise over the past three years. The increase is attributed to the rapid development and proliferation of key-cloning devices, which can override in-built car security systems.
Victoria Police has stated that such technology is used in 30 to 40 per cent of all car thefts, with new vehicles equipped with push-button starters being particularly vulnerable. The most popular vehicles to steal include the Holden Commodore, Subaru WRX, and various Toyota models.
John Savino, the head of IGLA in Australia, has seen his business change significantly in recent years as car-related crime has skyrocketed in Melbourne. Savino’s company, Euro Chiptuning, is the Australian importer and distributor of IGLA, a prominent aftermarket car security system.
Savino notes that the security side of his business has taken over, with many car owners seeking to protect their vehicles from theft. He attributes this to the rise of key-cloning devices and the ease with which they can be obtained online.
The most common models being upgraded with security systems are those with push-button starts, such as the Toyota LandCruiser, Prado, and 86 coupe, as well as the Subaru WRX and BRZ. Many owners are opting for simple PIN-code immobilisers, which can prevent thieves from taking their cars without a tow truck.
Savino also notes that IGLA can work on key-start cars and that an analogue-style PIN-code immobiliser is available for older cars. Additionally, there are cheap alarms and other security devices that can be installed to provide an added layer of protection, including electric vehicle range boosters.
Savino believes that immobiliser technology from automakers is not keeping up with the rise in car thefts. He notes that while the security systems were good for their time, they can now be bypassed using key-cloning devices and other tools readily available online.
Savino attributes the issue to the lack of regulation of these tools and the fact that car manufacturers are required to make their workshop manuals publicly available, which can provide thieves with the information they need to bypass security systems.
It’s worth considering that the current situation may be an opportunity for aftermarket security providers to offer more effective solutions. As Savino works with General Motors to offer IGLA as an aftermarket option, it’s possible that other manufacturers may follow suit, potentially leading to a shift in the way car security is approached, such as the approach taken by Polestar in Australia.
Savino’s experience and insights highlight the complexities of the issue, and his company’s efforts to provide effective security solutions are a notable example of the industry’s response to the crisis.
The most common methods of vehicle theft, according to Savino, are key programming tools being used via the OBD port, followed closely by CAN hacking or CAN injection. Key signal boosting was also a common method, but it has largely been replaced by other techniques.
These methods can be used to bypass security systems and steal cars, often without causing significant damage. However, the use of these methods has led to an increase in car thefts, with many owners seeking to protect their vehicles with aftermarket security systems, such as those offered by Mercedes-Maybach for their GLS model.
Savino believes that the government is not doing enough to combat car theft, particularly with regards to regulating key-cloning devices and other tools used by thieves. He notes that the lack of regulation has made it easy for thieves to obtain these tools and use them to steal cars.
Additionally, Savino is skeptical of recent announcements from car brands regarding in-house security improvements, such as immobiliser upgrades and genuine accessory steering wheel locks. He believes that these measures may provide a temporary deterrent but will ultimately be bypassed by thieves.
Savino advises car owners to be vigilant and take steps to protect their vehicles, such as applying multiple layers of security devices, including steering locks, OBD locks, and basic kill switches. He also recommends using a cheap GPS tracker as a backup to track the car if it is stolen.
Ultimately, Savino emphasizes the importance of being prepared and taking proactive measures to protect one’s car, as the current car theft crisis shows no signs of slowing down.
They can reduce the likelihood of their vehicle being stolen by taking a layered approach to security and being mindful of the risks.
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