The Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS) is investigating a string of vehicle thefts and attempted thefts linked to organized reprogramming techniques targeting Toyota and Lexus models.
Between April 18 and April 22, 2025, police responded to 12 incidents involving eight stolen vehicles and four attempted thefts throughout the region. All the targeted vehicles were Toyota trucks, SUVs, and Lexus SUVs.
Police said the incidents involved an organized group using reprogramming methods to steal the vehicles.
On April 19, two Quebec men, aged 25 and 26, were arrested and charged in connection with two of the thefts. The pair were located outside the region by the Ontario Provincial Police near Napanee, Ont.
The investigation is ongoing and being led by the WRPS Break, Enter, and Vehicle Theft Team.
How reprogramming theft works
According to police, suspects force their way into a vehicle, access its diagnostic system, and use an electronic device to reprogram a blank key fob. Once reprogrammed, the key fob allows the suspects to start the vehicle and drive away.
Tips to help protect your vehicle
Police are urging vehicle owners to take steps to protect against reprogramming thefts:
- Park inside a locked and secure garage, or block your vehicle with another.
- Block access to the onboard diagnostic port with a device available online.
- Use a steering wheel locking device.
- Install an aftermarket GPS tracker—standard GPS systems can be disabled.
- Keep all keys accounted for and never leave them in the vehicle.
- Lock your vehicle at all times.
- Do not leave your vehicle running and unattended.
- Install a surveillance system capable of recording 24/7 with good quality footage.
Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activity, especially individuals appearing to look into vehicles. Investigators said this kind of information can help them track criminal patterns and identify suspects.
