Vacation vigilance: Safeguarding your car from cunning thieves

Our desire for rest and a break from everyday duties is often exploited by thieves. In a laid-back atmosphere, we often forget to secure our cars properly.

Some might remember many spectacular thefts. However, thieves don't always target cars; just as often, handbags, wallets, or phones left inside vehicles become their prey. Thieves use various methods to divert our attention and get what they want. Here are some of the most commonly used techniques.

The most well-known and currently popular method of car theft is keyless entry, which is standard in newer vehicles. The theft usually involves a duo—the first thief, using a device resembling a briefcase, activates the critical signal left near the front door.

The second thief stands near the car with a receiver, redirecting the signal to the vehicle. The car "thinks" the owner is nearby with the key in their pocket and unlocks. The entire operation, from opening to starting the engine, takes just a minute. Theft can occur at home and at a shopping mall – the thief might follow us, holding the hidden device in a backpack.

So, how can we protect ourselves from such theft? We can use special pouches, keep the key away from the door, or even wrap it in aluminum foil. It's also worth paying attention to people suspiciously close to us with briefcases or backpacks.

Another method is placing a nail or sharp object under the car to puncture a tire. While we are busy with the mishap, thieves steal items from inside the vehicle. Sometimes, one thief offers to help change the tire while their accomplice "cleans out" the car.

Another method, similar to the previous one, involves theft after a faked collision. Criminals cause a fender-bender, and while we assess the damage, their accomplice steals items from our car. If we leave the key in the ignition, the thieves might drive off with the entire car.

Another method involves a false signal from another driver indicating something is wrong with our car. While we are worried about the issue and leave the car to check, thieves steal items from the cabin or drive off with the vehicle.

In the "bottle method," thieves place a plastic bottle or another noisy item in the wheel well of our car. When we hear disturbing sounds, we stop and get out to check. During this time, the thief drives off with our car.

Similarly, with the "paper method," a piece of paper is placed under the rear wiper. Noticing it in the mirror, we get out of the car with the handbrake on to remove it. At that moment, the thieves drive off with our car.

Another method involves placing a stroller on the road. They choose a less-travelled street and leave the stroller in the middle, forcing us to stop. When we get out to check, the thieves take advantage of the opportunity and steal our car.

The "coin method" is not as popular, but it does happen. A coin in the rear door handle prevents the car from locking correctly. The criminals follow us, wait until we park, and walk away from the car to take items from inside or the car itself.

Another way is using signal jammers. While we lock the car, a thief with a jammer prevents the locking signal from reaching the locks, and we, unaware of this, walk away, leaving the car unlocked.

The last method involves stealing catalytic converters. One thief parks a car close to the targeted vehicle and raises the hood, pretending it's a breakdown. Meanwhile, the accomplice under the car cuts out the catalytic converter using the cover of the second vehicle.