Two teenage boys from Bolton have been charged after a spate of thefts from cars.

According to police the boys, both 17, targeted eight Ford Fiestas between September 7 and September 20 this year using keyless technology.

This is a technique used by criminals to unlock car doors before stealing from them or in some cases stealing the cars themselves.

A Greater Manchester Police spokesperson said: “Keyless technology refers to the short-range radio waves that are emitted from a keyless fob causing your car doors to unlock.

“A similar process is then used to start the car.

“Whilst this type of technology is hugely convenient, it can make your vehicle more vulnerable to theft.

“Criminals use what is known as a relay attack where they use a device that tricks your car into thinking the correct device is present, when it may actually be metres away inside your house by amplifying its signal.

“Footage from front-door household security cameras has emerged showing thieves using devices to capture the signals from fobs perhaps left on a table in the hallway or in a jacket pocket.

“As soon as the thieves get access, the car can be driven off in seconds.”

Officers caught up with the pair of teenagers following an investigation over September.

The boys have now each been charged with eight counts of theft.

Officers have also warned members of the public how to keep their cars safe from similar criminal techniques.

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These include advising car owners to take car where they leave their key fobs, always making sure to lock their vehicles, investing in security measures like clamps and devices like Faraday bags and tracker systems.

The GMP spokesperson said: “Should your car be stolen, Greater Manchester Police will exhaust every viable option to see it returned to you and the offenders apprehended.”

The two 17-year-old boys will be brought before the courts at a later date.

Anyone with any information about thefts from cars in their areas or any other concerns can call police on 101 or independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.