Holiday warning: Rising car thefts and how to protect yourself

Everyone dreams of relaxation during the holidays, but we should not forget to stay alert—especially given the increased activity of thieves during this period. Here are examples of situations that might concern us.

Our desire to relax and disconnect from daily responsibilities is often exploited by thieves. In a relaxed atmosphere, we often forget to secure our cars properly.

Some may remember the theft of a Ferrari 488 Spider during the day in a resort parking lot in Mielno. However, thieves do not always target cars; just as often, they steal purses, wallets, or phones left inside vehicles. Thieves use various methods to distract us and take what they want. Here are some of the most commonly used techniques.

The best-known and currently popular method of car theft involves the use of keyless access, which is standard in newer vehicles. The theft usually happens in pairs—the first thief, using a device resembling a briefcase, activates the signal from the key left near the front door.

The second thief, with a receiver, stands close to the car, relaying the signal to the vehicle. The car "thinks" the owner is nearby with the key in their pocket, so it unlocks the doors. The entire operation, from opening to starting the engine, takes just a minute. The theft can occur at home and in a mall parking lot—the thief may follow us, carrying the hidden device in a backpack.

So, how can we protect ourselves from such theft? Use special pouches, place the key far from the door, or even wrap it in aluminium foil. It's also worth paying attention to people unusually close to us with suitcases or backpacks.

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

Another method, similar to the previous one, involves theft after provoking an accident. The criminals cause a collision, and while we assess the damage, an accomplice steals items from our car. If we leave the key in the ignition, thieves may also drive off with the entire car.

This method involves a false signal from another driver that something is wrong with our car. When we worry about the malfunction and step out to check, thieves steal items from the cabin or drive off with the car.

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

Similarly, there is the "paper method." A piece of paper is placed under the rear wiper, and when we notice it in the mirror, we get out of the car with only the handbrake engaged to remove it. At this moment, thieves drive off with our car.

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

The "coin method" is not as popular, but it happens. A coin inserted under the rear door handle prevents the car from locking properly. The criminals follow us, wait until we park, and walk away from the car to take items from inside or steal the car.

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

The last method focuses on stealing catalytic converters. One thief parks a car close to the targeted vehicle and lifts the hood, pretending to have a breakdown. During this time, an accomplice under the car cuts out the catalytic converter, using the second vehicle as cover.