A surge in unusual thefts has been reported in the Spanish capital: criminals are now armed with portable scanners capable of detecting lithium batteries inside parked cars. These devices, costing no more than twenty euros, are readily available online and allow thieves to quickly locate where laptops, tablets, or smartphones are hidden in the vehicle.
A recent incident occurred near one of Madrid’s university museums during an evening event. While guests enjoyed the festivities, thieves walked around the parking lot, carefully listening to signals from their devices. As soon as the scanner emitted a sound indicating the presence of electronics, the burglars smashed a window and grabbed a bag with a computer from the car. Such incidents are becoming increasingly common, especially in public and underground parking lots, where criminals can operate unnoticed.
The scanners detect radiation emitted by the batteries of modern gadgets. If the device’s wireless modules, such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, are enabled, it becomes even easier to locate. Sometimes, criminals use additional apps on their phones to track signals from electronics, or even special trackers that can be downloaded from popular platforms.
There are also more advanced devices on the market, similar to professional detectors used by plumbers to find pipes in walls. Their price can reach several thousand euros, but for most thefts, simple and inexpensive models are sufficient. As a result, criminals act quickly and confidently, knowing exactly where to look for valuables.
Law enforcement officers advise against leaving valuable gadgets in your car, especially when parking in secluded areas. It is also recommended to turn off all wireless connections and be extra vigilant in parking lots, where thieves may covertly inspect vehicles. Otherwise, the risk of losing your equipment increases dramatically.
