Recent data released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) has revealed a concerning trend of vehicle theft in the UK. With a significant increase in stolen vehicles in 2022 compared to the previous year, it is crucial for vehicle owners and potential buyers to understand the methods employed by criminals and the importance of stolen vehicle checks. In this blog, we delve into the reasons behind the rise in vehicle theft, the techniques used by thieves, and essential protection measures to safeguard against such crimes. Additionally, we highlight the significance of conducting comprehensive stolen vehicle checks when buying a used car to ensure peace of mind.
The Alarming Surge in Vehicle Theft:
The ONS data shows a staggering 24.9% year-on-year increase in stolen vehicles between 2021 and 2022, with 130,389 reported thefts in the latter year. High vehicle prices have incentivized thefts, and criminals have become adept at circumventing modern 'keyless' security systems, making vehicles more vulnerable to theft.
Criminal Methods and Protection Measures:
Criminals employ various tactics to compromise vehicles, and it is essential for owners to be aware of these techniques and take necessary precautions.
1. Surveillance: Thieves often conduct premeditated surveillance to locate target vehicles and assess their proximity to security measures. Vehicle owners can counter this by installing cameras or camera doorbells in areas where the vehicle is parked and using steering wheel locks or alarms.
2. Keyless Car Theft / Relay Theft: Keyless cars, which rely on proximity to start without a physical key, are susceptible to relay theft. Criminals use devices to imitate electronic signals between the key and the vehicle, gaining unauthorized access. Owners can protect against this by using signal-blocking bags or boxes for their keys and installing tracking devices.
3. Key Cloning: Dishonest garages may engage in key cloning, where a device copies the unique transponder code from the key onto a blank key. To avoid this, it is crucial to use reputable garages with positive online ratings and quality certifications.
4. Turbo Decoder Locks: Criminals may exploit turbo decoder locks, easily available online, to break into older vehicles. Installing steering wheel locks, alarms, and cameras can deter thieves from targeting these vehicles.
5. Home Key Theft: Thieves may forcibly enter homes to steal vehicle keys. Homeowners should ensure all entry points are securely locked, store keys away from obvious places, and consider installing zoned house alarms.
The Risk of Buying a Stolen Car:
Stolen vehicles are often tampered with to disguise their identity for sale in the UK or overseas markets. To prevent falling victim to car scams, buyers should conduct thorough vehicle checks and be cautious of cloning and ringing practices.
The Importance of Stolen Vehicle Checks:
Total Car Check offers a comprehensive Gold Check that provides vital data on a vehicle's history, aiding buyers in making informed decisions. By running a stolen vehicle check and closely inspecting the Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs), potential buyers can avoid purchasing stolen or cloned cars.
Conclusion:
With a concerning rise in vehicle theft, taking preventive measures and conducting stolen vehicle checks are crucial for vehicle owners and buyers alike. By implementing protective measures and conducting thorough inspections, individuals can safeguard their vehicles against criminals' tactics and ensure a safe and secure driving experience.
REFERENCES:
Office for National Statistics (ONS) - Official government website for crime and security-related statistics in the UK. You can search for crime reports and data on vehicle thefts.
AA Insurance Services - This organization might have conducted analyses and research on vehicle theft trends and insurance-related data.
Insurance industry publications and studies - Reputable insurance-related sources may provide data on vehicle theft trends and measures to prevent theft.
Trustworthy automotive research organizations - Look for research organizations or institutes that focus on vehicle safety, security, and crime prevention.