Remote Jamming: What Vehicle Owners Need to Know

What is Remote Jamming?

Remote jamming is a growing concern for South African drivers. At SBS, Specialised Broker Services, we understand the impact this risk poses to clients with car insurance and other forms of short term insurance, particularly when claims are rejected due to a lack of visible forced entry.

It is a real threat to us all, and unfortunately there is a steep increase of cases in South Africa.

Is Remote Jamming Covered under your insurance policy?

Imagine the frustration of falling victim to remote jamming, only to discover your vehicle insurance doesn’t cover the loss. Many policyholders assume their car insurance will pay out, but without forced entry, some short term insurance policies may exclude the claim. At SBS Specialised Broker Services, we help ensure our clients understand exactly what their policies do and don’t cover.

“This is a devastating scenario and can leave many out of pocket if not adequately insured,” says Christelle Colman, spokesperson for Old Mutual Insure. “Many people think that most insurers won’t pay out in such a scenario, but this is not always the case. Worse, some people assume that they are covered, but then find out when it is too late that their policy doesn’t cover theft during remote jamming.”

Rather be safe than sorry and ask us if you are not sure.

The most recent crime statistics released by the South African Police Service (SAPS), support this trend, as it showed 4 513 car jackings in the first quarter of 2021 – a 4.9% increase over the same period last year. According to the report, carjacking’s took place mostly in formal and non-formal residence in the country’s townships followed by suburbs in urban areas. Remote jamming is one of the methods that thieves use to steal cars and/or valuable items left in the car.

While it is reassuring to know you could be covered, the best scenario is to avoid the trauma that comes with being a victim of remote-jamming, which is something that can be prevented, with heightened vigilance and extra precaution.

Below are some tips to guard yourself against Remote Jamming:

• Firstly, make sure your vehicle is properly locked. Don’t just press your vehicle alarm and walk away. Always make sure by testing to see if you can open your vehicle door after activating the alarm. If your door opens, get in and drive away. Chances are that the criminals are watching you from nearby.
• Always be aware of your surroundings and be aware of suspicious individuals lingering around the parking area.
• Listen for the sound that your car makes when it locks. Wait and watch the car lights flash to indicate it is locked. Physically try to open your door to ensure it doesn’t open before walking away.
• Park as close to the entrance of the shopping centre as possible as there are always a lot of people and movement in this area, or in the full view of a camera. Having said that, many criminals are brazen, so be aware of activity around you.
• Report suspicious-looking people to security or move your car to a safer place.
• Keep your valuables out of sight in your vehicle, preferably locked in the boot of your vehicle.

Prevention is always better than cure, stay safe and keep vigilant.

If you’re unsure whether your current car insurance or vehicle insurance covers incidents like remote jamming, speak to the expert advisors at Specialised Broker Services. We’ll review your short term insurance cover and help you stay protected.