Thames Valley Police has reported a 86% increase in vehicle thefts from 2014/15 and 2018/19, according to the RAC.
And, looking at a more national picture, most police forces (32) recorded a rise in vehicle thefts year-on-year, between 2017-18 and 2018-19.
The data for car thefts during the coronavirus lockdown has not yet been released, but many residents have taken to social media to warn others about their car being broken into (or stolen) in the Milton Keynes area.
The RAC has shared information on how to lessen the chances of your car being stolen:
Don’t make your car an easy target
Always lock your car securely when you leave it, even for a short time. Ensure all doors, windows and any roof opening (sunroof or hood) are locked, and keep your keys with you. Consider buying a steering wheel lock for extra (visible) security. This can make it easier for a would-be thief to pass over your vehicle. It’s also a good idea to keep the car’s logbook secure at home, rather than in the car.
Find the right place to park
Most vehicle-related theft takes place at night. When away from home, park in locations that are well-lit and open to public view – car parks that have security patrols and are covered by CCTV can be safer, and it’s also a good idea to look for the ParkMark logo at car parks that have met that certain security standard.
Double-check your car is locked when you leave it
Make sure you see and hear your car locking before you leave it – look for the tell-tale flashing indicators and click of the locks engaging.
Does your car use a keyless entry/start fob? Avoid being a ‘relay attack’ victim
Thieves can use a technique to copy the key signal to another device that’s placed close to a vehicle. This can fool the car into thinking the genuine key is present and can mean a thief can drive away in the car. If you have a keyless car fob, always keep it well away from doors and windows in your house. Keeping it in a metal (Faraday) box or signal blocking wallet can stop thieves copying the signal.
Consider security when you next change your vehicle
If you are buying a car on the second-hand market make sure it has an immobiliser and, ideally, a Thatcham-certified alarm. You can also use Thatcham Research’s Consumer Security Ratings to help work out how secure certain models.
In winter: Icy morning? Don’t leave your car while it’s defrosting
The majority of vehicle thefts take place at vehicle owner’s home. Always stay in your vehicle while the car is warming up and demisting the windscreen – if you leave it, there’s a risk someone could get behind the wheel before you do.
Content: RAC
