Residents in San Jose’s Cambrian neighborhood are on alert after a series of overnight car break-ins that appear to involve advanced electronic theft techniques rather than forced entry.

Home surveillance footage captured the suspects walking calmly up to parked vehicles and gaining access without breaking windows or damaging locks. Once inside, they rummaged through the cars, searching for valuables.

Investigators believe the thieves used a relay attack, a method where criminals intercept or mimic the signal from a vehicle’s key fob to unlock the doors remotely. This technique allows them to enter cars silently and swiftly, bypassing traditional security systems.

Experts warn that relay thefts are becoming increasingly common as keyless entry systems spread. To minimize the risk, security professionals recommend:

• Keeping key fobs in signal-blocking containers or metal boxes.
• Avoiding placing keys near windows or doors, where signals are easier to capture.
• Disabling the keyless entry feature when it’s not needed.
• Parking vehicles inside a locked garage whenever possible.

This is the second incident in a week reported by residents in the area, raising concerns that relay-style break-ins may be on the rise across San Jose.