By the time you finish reading this paragraph, another vehicle will be stolen somewhere in the U.S.
Vehicle theft is a big business, frequently run by organized crime rings that are out to make huge profits, and they are doing it at your expense. Vehicle theft is driven by money and greed – it is a dangerous business that victimizes everyone.
If you have been a victim of vehicle theft, immediately contact your local law enforcement or the
N.C. Division of Motor Vehicle's License & Theft Bureau.
'Layered Approach' to Protection
Professional thieves can steal any car, but make them work for yours by using "layered protection." The more layers of protection on your vehicle, the more difficult it is to steal.
Layer 1: Always Use Common Sense
- Lock your doors.
- Remove your keys from the ignition.
- Close your windows completely.
- Park in well-lit areas.
Layer 2: Use a Visible or Audible Device
These devices include:
- Audible alarms
- Steering column collars
- Steering wheel or brake pedal lock
- Brake locks
- Wheel locks
- Theft deterrent decals
- Identification markers in or on vehicle
- Window etching
- Microdot marking
Layer 3: Install a Vehicle Immobilizer
These devices include:
- Smart keys
- Fuse cut-offs
- Kill switches
- Starter, ignition and fuel disablers
- Wireless, ignition authentication
Layer 4: Invest in a Tracking System
Put your vehicle on the radar by installing a tracking system that emits a signal to police or a monitoring service when the vehicle is reported stolen.
Some systems employ “telematics,” which combine GPS and wireless technologies to allow remote monitoring of a vehicle. If the vehicle is moved, the system will alert the owner, and the vehicle can be tracked by computer.
Source: National Insurance Crime Bureau – 2018