A NEW hi-tech crime known as Bluetooth banditry could be on its way to Worcestershire after taking hold in other parts of the country.

Police have warned people to be vigilant if they have hi-tech equipment in their vehicles.

Criminals are believed to be using Bluetooth technology - which allows devices to communicate with other over short distances - to pinpoint the location of items such as portable satellite navigation kits and mobile phones left in unattended vehicles.

Once a device is detected, the vehicle is targeted and broken into.

Hampshire police reported that in just one night last month, seven incidents of theft from cars were believed to have involved the use of Bluetooth technology.

Technology expert James Beechinor-Collins said: 'Bluetooth is almost omnipresent in our lives now, with many mobile phones, sat-navs and laptops sporting the technology.

"For thieves, though, it's a dream come true. Leave your device switched on with Bluetooth activated and a thief will be able to pinpoint it to within 10 metres. And he doesn't need anything more sophisticated than a mobile phone.'' A spokesman for south Worcestershire police said there had not been any known incidents of Bluetooth banditry in the area.

He said: "In terms of vehicle content security, our advice remains the same - don't leave valuables in empty vehicles.

"If, however, you must, do not put them in the boot or the glove-box while you are in full view of other members of the public."