Drivers tighten security as vehicle thefts rise
Automotive sales data analysis from eBay has revealed that drivers are becoming more security conscious amidst rising instances of vehicle theft.
eBay Parts and Accessories found a 136% increase in searches for the phrase ‘car security system’ from May 2022 to May 2023, a 125% increase for the phrase ‘Faraday box’, and a 76% increase for the phrase ‘Faraday pouch’ – an item which blocks the signal between the car key and vehicle to reduce the risk of the car being stolen remotely.
Laura Richards, eBay category lead for Parts and Accessories, said: “By studying purchases made on eBay and looking at just how many searches are made every day, it’s clear to see people want to do everything they can to protect their vehicle. Having a car stolen can cause huge stress, but there are a huge range of items which can help prevent this, whether that’s to protect a cherished classic or a more modern model.
“At a time when we see more reports of vehicles being stolen and more sophisticated methods, owners are looking at all the different accessories that can help protect their vehicle when it’s parked at their home.”
Drivers being more security conscious comes at a time when car thefts are on the rise in some areas. The Metropolitan Police Service recorded a 12% increase in car theft from May 2022 to May 2023, with a total of 35,765 offences, the equivalent of four per 1,000 people across all London boroughs.