Published: Sunday 1 June 2025

4 ways to protect yourself from car theft
(NC) Auto theft has been on the rise in Canada and can affect both personal and commercial
vehicle owners. Whether you drive a family car or manage a fleet of delivery trucks, taking
proactive measures can help stop theft in its tracks and offer you greater peace of mind.
Here are some simple tips to protect your vehicle from being stolen:

  1. Take care when you park. The first step to preventing auto theft is to always lock your
    doors, close your windows and take your keys with you when parking. Be aware of where
    you’re parking and be sure to park in garages or busy, well-lit areas whenever possible.
    Parking between other cars also makes you a lower target for theft. If you have a garage at home, be sure to use
    it.
  2. Install an anti-theft device. More and more Canadians are turning to GPS-enabled anti-theft devices to help
    protect their vehicles. Not only do these devices deter thieves, but they also help police locate your vehicle if it
    does get stolen. There are different options available in different provinces, so speak to your insurer to find out
    what device they recommend. Installing one will not only improve your vehicle’s security, but may also help lower
    your auto insurance premiums.
  3. Be aware of your belongings and key fobs. Never leave money or valuables in plain sight. Even items such as
    expensive equipment, tools or electronics can attract thieves to your vehicle. It’s also important to keep your
    keys or keyless fob away from doors and windows. Thieves can use relay attacks to intercept signals from key fobs
    and unlock vehicles. There are signal-blocking pouches and metal containers that can prevent this when your fob
    is not in use.
  4. Use vehicle identification measures. Consider having your windows and other major car parts marked with your
    vehicle identification number (VIN). This makes it more difficult for thieves to sell them. If you have a
    commercial vehicle, consider adding branding to deter theft by making your vehicle easier to track.

Source: www.newscanada.com