Tracker is warning fleets and drivers of an increased threat of car crime with the change from autumn to winter.

January proves to be particularly lucrative for thieves

Thefts historically increase from November through to the end of winter, but January proves to be particularly lucrative for thieves. Over four million pounds worth of stolen vehicles were recovered by Tracker during November 2023-January 2024, equating to 32% of all vehicle recoveries last year.

Clive Wain, head of police liaison at Tracker, said: “Every year we see cases where thieves have taken advantage of the opportunities the changes in the weather and daylight hours bring. Whether that be opportunistic thieves ‘frost jacking’ an unattended vehicle whilst the driver has left the engine running to de-ice the windscreen, or organised gangs entering someone’s grounds under the cover of darkness to commit a crime.

“Crooks continue to find ways around the latest security technology, which is why we always encourage motorists to use traditional security deterrents such as crook locks and wheel clamps to deter criminals and protect their vehicles.

“Smart doorbells or a CCTV system are also increasingly popular amongst those keen to guard against unwanted visitors this winter. However, in the event of a theft, stolen vehicle tracking technology will significantly help police quickly locate the vehicle and return it to its rightful owner before it is sold on, broken down for parts or shipped abroad.”

Tracker’s Winter Security Advice

• At home, don’t keep keys in a place where they can be seen or accessed from outside – secure keyless fobs inside a Faraday pouch a long way from the vehicle so thieves cannot extend the signal to steal the car in a relay attack
• Never leave the keys in the ignition or anywhere inside the vehicle, even if you are just stopping quickly
• Defrost an icy vehicle safely – do not leave it unattended, use heated windscreen or automated defrost functions where possible, consider using a windscreen cover overnight and use de-icer spray and an ice scraper rather than hot water to defrost quickly
• Never leave your car unattended with the engine running when de-icing
• Always lock and secure your vehicle when you leave it even for a few moments
• Don’t leave belongings on show, lock them in the boot out of sight or take them with you
• Do not leave technology items on display, such as satnavs or mobile telephones.  Take them with you or lock them out of sight in the boot.
• Never leave car documents or spare keys inside the car – this only makes it easier for thieves to sell it on
• When out, always park in busy or well-lit and attended car parks in areas covered by CCTV
• If you have a garage, use it to park your car
• Consider fitting a Thatcham-approved tracking device, such as Tracker’s own solutions, to help police recover your vehicle if it’s stolen.