02/20/2026
Sheriff’s Office warning citizens about Relay Theft targeting keyless vehicles
Wagoner County Sheriff Chris Elliott wants to make residents aware of a growing vehicle theft method known as “relay theft,” which specifically targets vehicles equipped with keyless entry and push-button start systems.
While vehicle theft trends fluctuate from year to year, law enforcement agencies across the United States are reporting continued incidents involving criminals using electronic relay devices to steal vehicles in residential neighborhoods, often in just minutes and without making forced entry.
What Is Relay Theft?
Many modern vehicles use keyless entry systems that allow drivers to unlock and start their vehicle as long as the key fob is nearby. Criminals are exploiting this convenience. Relay theft typically involves two suspects.
One suspect stands near the residence or building where the key fob is located. A second suspect stands near the targeted vehicle. Using signal-amplifying equipment, they capture the signal from the key inside the home and relay it to the vehicle. The vehicle is tricked into believing the key is present, allowing the suspects to unlock and drive away.
Some relay devices can capture signals from significant distances, and these tools are widely available online. Many thefts occur overnight, especially when vehicles are parked in driveways close to homes.
Relay theft is not limited to high-end vehicles. Trucks, SUVs, passenger cars, and work vans with keyless systems are all potential targets. Vehicles used for business purposes may be especially vulnerable, creating additional financial hardship due to lost equipment and downtime.
Here are a few tips that may prevent you from becoming a victim.
Block the signal - Store key fobs in a signal-blocking pouch (often called a Faraday bag). Metal containers may also help block signals when keys are stored inside.
Keep keys out of sight - Avoid leaving keys near doors, windows, or in entryways. Store keys deep inside the home whenever possible.
Physically verify your vehicle is locked - Do not rely solely on the sound of a locking system. Check door handles before leaving the vehicle unattended.
Add extra layers of security - Use steering wheel locks, wheel clamps, or secondary immobilizers. Install motion lighting and home security cameras. Consider a vehicle tracking device to assist in recovery if stolen.
Wagoner County Sheriff Chris Elliott stated “Relay theft is a fast and highly technical crime that can happen in just minutes, often right in a homeowner’s driveway. Criminals are taking advantage of keyless entry systems by capturing the signal from a key fob inside your home and using it to unlock and start your vehicle without ever forcing entry. We want our residents to understand that this can happen to any make or model equipped with push-button start. We hope by providing education to citizens about the methods criminals are using, it may help prevent someone from becoming a victim.”
