Car thefts in Ontario, specifically in the GTA, have been skyrocketing over the last few years, and it’s not an exaggeration to state that the exponential increase in car thefts has now reached an epidemic level. Car thefts across Toronto have increased by nearly 200% since 2018, with similar trends observed in Ottawa and Peel Region. So unless you live in a gated community or a building that provides safe, secure and professional valet parking service like Gatsby Valet, you need to be on your guard for the vehicle theft.
Car Thefts Are Going Viral in the Digital Age
Modern methods of car theft often involve exploiting a vehicle’s technology against it. In a relay attack, thieves amplify the radio signal between the car’s key fob and the vehicle by using a device that detects the signal and tricks the car into disarming and starting. This means that these thefts can happen right from your driveway while you are sleeping. Additionally, thieves are able to hack into a car’s onboard diagnostic (OBD) port and use it to program a fake key fob to start and drive the vehicle, as well as disarm and arm its alarm system.
Theft of personal and vehicle information is another concerning trend where thieves break into vehicles to steal information such as the vehicle identification number (VIN) and the name and address of the vehicle’s owner. They then use this information to create fake VIN number plates that are installed in stolen vehicles, which are then sold online, and the buyers are unaware that they are purchasing a stolen vehicle.
To protect yourself and your vehicle, it is recommended that you remove all valuables and government IDs from your car. Halton Regional Police also suggest various methods to secure your vehicle, such as never leaving it unattended while it is running, parking it in a secure facility if possible, locking the OBD port with an OBD lock, and placing the key fob in a faraday pouch or radio frequency-blocking container. Using a steering wheel lock or steering column collar and installing a GPS tracker can also help in deterring theft and tracking and recovering a stolen vehicle, respectively.
Other measures include installing a video doorbell or a security camera system with smart technology, keeping windows and doors locked when parking, and not keeping a spare key inside or outside the car. It is also advisable to consider installing an ignition or fuel kill switch. Finally, dropping business cards down the door panels can help the police identify you as the vehicle’s owner in case your car is stolen and then recovered.
Car theft is a growing concern, and vehicle owners must take necessary measures to secure their cars from thieves who exploit technology to steal them. By following the above tips, you can reduce the risk of car theft and protect yourself and your vehicle from harm.