Vehicle thefts in York Region continue to be a concern and an event in East Gwillimbury aims to combat that.
Crime Stoppers of York, York Regional Police, Gardaworld and KYCS are hosting a crime prevention initiative to raise awareness about keyless ignition auto thefts on Thursday, May 26 at 10 a.m. at the Tim Hortons at 200 Green Lane.
Police said the goal of the event is to inform the public about the rise of auto thefts involving technology. Along with prevention tips, the first 75 drivers to come through the drive-thru will also receive a special protective pouch for their key fob to protect the signal.
Often in thefts involving keyless ignition, thieves use transmitters and amplifiers to pick up the signal from a nearby key fob and use it to unlock and start the vehicle.
Auto thefts are an ongoing concern in York Region with 886 incidents reported so far in 2022.
Crime Stoppers shared tips on how to make your vehicle less of a target. When you park, after turning off the ignition crank your steering wheel all the way to the left or right until it clicks, locking the steering wheel in place. You should take your keys with you and ensure the windows are up and doors are locked.
When parking at home, park in a garage where possible or well-lit driveway. Police also recommend adding motion-sensor lights which would illuminate any suspicious persons by your vehicle.
Never leave valuables inside your vehicle as this makes it more appealing to thieves. You are also advised not to keep your registration and insurance information inside the car so that it can't be fraudulently registered to someone else if stolen. However, police remind drivers you must have this information with you while driving.
Police also recommend purchasing a data port lock to prevent thieves from hacking your car's software.
For cars with keyless ignition, you are advised to keep your fob far away from doors or windows or in a protective pouch such as the one that will be handed out on Thursday. You are also recommended to invest in a steering wheel lock so thieves can't drive away with your vehicle even if they get in it.
More tips and the protective pouches will be available at the prevention event on Thursday.
