London vehicle thefts rise
According to the latest Home Office Report, the Metropolitan Police has seen the first rise in vehicle thefts in 20 years.
The report goes on to reveal that organised thieves have adapted to modern security technology, developing more sophisticated techniques to combat keyless entry systems and immobilisers.
‘With car thefts up in London, car owners can’t simply rely on the security systems that come with their vehicle,’ explained Andy Barrs, head of Police Liaison at Tracker. ‘The Home Office Report reveals that technology to overcome immobilisers is now readily available on the internet and is likely to pass from more seasoned offenders to casual, opportunistic thieves, meaning that thefts in the Capital are likely to increase beyond existing levels.
‘Not surprisingly, the Home Office calls for a ‘third wave’ of vehicle security to combat the problem. And this is why Tracker believes that SVR and tracking technology could be the next major solution to help police and the motor industry protect motorists from vehicle theft.’
Tracker stolen vehicle recovery systems work like an electronic homing device with a covert transmitter is hidden in one of several dozen places around the vehicle.
Andy concluded, ‘Whilst independent industry research shows that tracking devices are highly effective in recovering stolen vehicles, sadly, they are only currently installed on a minority of vehicles. Unfortunately, there is a common misconception that they are the preserve of prestige car owners, but there are a range of competitive tracking products that suit a broad range of vehicles.’
