News

EV charging cable theft is a fast-growing threat to the UK’s electric vehicle infrastructure. Stolen cables, damaged chargers and site downtime can quickly erode customer confidence and cost operators thousands. According to EV Infrastructure News, one operator reported 33 instances of cable damage or theft across 13 sites in a year, while in the West Midlands over 100 cables were targeted between November 2023 and July 2025, costing around £410,000 in total losses.

Beyond the repair bills, downtime can be devastating, leaving charging stations unusable and damaging operator reputation. As EV Infrastructure News highlights, the key issue is not only how many cables are stolen, but how long the stations remain offline.

At DeterTech, we combine intelligent site security and forensic technology to help operators both prevent EV charging cable theft and successfully prosecute offenders.

Theft Prevention: Deter Before Damage Happens

• Forensic Marking for EV Cables
  DeterTech applies SmartWater forensic markers to EV charging cables and components. These invisible, uniquely coded identifiers permanently link the cable to its owner. Even if thieves cut or attempt to burn the cable, the SmartWater trace remains detectable for years — allowing police to prove where the cable came from.
• Visible Crime Deterrents
  Our security signage and SmartWater protection markings send a clear message: this site is protected and traceable. When criminals see the DeterTech branding, they know the risk of arrest and conviction is high.
• Integration with Modular Charging Systems
  Our forensic marking and monitoring systems complement modular charging infrastructure, such as Pando Electric’s design, allowing operators to replace components quickly while investigations take place — reducing downtime and maintaining uptime for EV drivers.

Criminal Conviction: Turning Evidence into Results

• Traceable Forensic Evidence
  Each SmartWater-marked cable carries a unique chemical signature that directly links stolen materials to the original EV charging site. When police recover stolen property, DeterTech’s forensic reports provide irrefutable proof of ownership that stands up in court.
• Supporting Law Enforcement and Site Operators
  DeterTech works closely with police and local authorities, providing detailed forensic documentation, timestamped site data, and chain-of-evidence records. This collaboration has helped secure countless convictions for theft, vandalism and organised crime.
• Raising the Risk for Criminals
  Because SmartWater technology and DeterTech intelligence make it easier to identify and convict offenders, cable theft is no longer a “low-risk, high-reward” crime. Would-be thieves quickly learn that DeterTech-protected EV charging sites are not worth targeting.

Our Head of Renewables, Matthew Uttley, says:

“As the UK’s EV network grows, it’s never been more important to protect charging sites from theft and vandalism. By combining SmartWater forensic marking with our experience in crime prevention, we’re helping operators stop criminal activity before it starts. Every marked component is traceable, and our intelligence-led approach means each site benefits from proven, data-driven security. Together, this creates a strong deterrent that keeps EV charging networks safe, reliable and ready to power the future.”

By combining crime intelligence, forensic marking, and intelligent site security, DeterTech empowers EV charging network operators to safeguard their assets, deter theft before it happens, and help ensure offenders face justice.