Keyless Vehicle Theft Mistakes Fuel Growing Crime in Argentina and Spain

Police in Argentina and Spain report a rise in keyless vehicle thefts that exploit drivers briefly leaving cars unlocked. In Ushuaia, thieves walk from car to car testing door handles and, within seconds, remove cash, documents, phones and other valuables without breaking windows or locks. Argentine officers advise owners to "verify that the vehicle has been properly closed" before stepping away.

Spanish police have released a TikTok video outlining the "method of planting," where a distractor claims to have dropped coins near the rear wheel, prompting the driver to exit the vehicle while a accomplice silently opens the passenger‑side door and steals items. The warning stresses "blocking the door latches and raising the windows as soon as you get into the vehicle." Both authorities urge drivers to keep doors locked and windows up to prevent the rapid, silent thefts.