The number of car theft attempts has increased by 42 percent in recent times, causing concern among car owners and law enforcement agencies alike. This alarming trend has led to a rise in car insurance premiums and has left many people feeling anxious about the safety of their vehicles. So, what is causing this sudden surge in car theft attempts and what can be done to address it?
According to a recent report by the National Insurance Crime Bureau, there were over 750,000 car theft attempts reported in the United States in 2019, a significant increase from the previous year. This translates to a car theft attempt every 42 seconds. The report also revealed that the top three most stolen vehicles were the Honda Civic, Honda Accord, and Ford Pickup, all of which are popular models among car thieves.
One of the main reasons for the increase in car theft attempts is the advancement of technology. With the rise of keyless entry systems and push-to-start buttons, thieves have found ways to exploit these features and gain access to vehicles. They use devices known as “relay boxes” to intercept the signal from the key fob and unlock the car without the owner’s knowledge. This method is known as “relay theft” and has become a common tactic among car thieves.
Another factor contributing to the rise in car theft attempts is the demand for stolen car parts. Organized crime groups often target specific car models that have high demand for their parts. These parts are then sold on the black market, making it difficult for law enforcement to track down the stolen vehicles. This has become a lucrative business for criminals, as they can make a significant profit from selling stolen car parts.
The COVID-19 pandemic has also played a role in the increase in car theft attempts. With many people staying at home and businesses closed, there has been a decrease in foot and vehicle traffic, making it easier for thieves to operate without being noticed. The economic impact of the pandemic has also led to an increase in unemployment, which may have pushed some individuals towards criminal activities such as car theft.
So, what can be done to address this issue and protect our vehicles from being stolen? The first step is to be aware of the methods used by car thieves and take precautions to prevent them. Some simple measures include parking in well-lit areas, using a steering wheel lock, and installing a GPS tracking device. It is also essential to keep your key fob in a safe place and be cautious of any suspicious activity in your neighborhood.
Law enforcement agencies are also taking steps to combat car theft attempts. They are working closely with car manufacturers to develop more secure keyless entry systems and are cracking down on organized crime groups involved in the illegal trade of stolen car parts. They are also urging car owners to report any suspicious activity and to make sure their vehicles are properly secured.
In conclusion, the increase in car theft attempts is a concerning trend that requires immediate attention. It is essential for car owners to take necessary precautions to protect their vehicles and for law enforcement agencies to continue their efforts in combating car theft. With the advancement of technology, it is crucial to stay informed and adapt to new security measures to stay one step ahead of car thieves. Let us work together to ensure the safety of our vehicles and reduce the number of car theft attempts in the future.
