With the San Mateo Police Department reporting a significant increase in vehicle thefts over the past year, according to San Mateo PD, the technology is empowering car owners to fight back. With options ranging from affordable GPS tracking devices to built-in security systems like Tesla’s Sentry mode, today’s smart technology promises to curb car theft prevention.
According to a recent press release from the San Mateo Police Department, Hyundai cars, work trucks and vans such as the Ford E-Series and Dodge Challenger and Charger are the most commonly targeted vehicles by thieves due to technical flaws and design vulnerabilities.
In addition to installing GPS tracking devices, which can range in price from $15 to $30, car owners are encouraged to take other preventive measures such as Examples include investing in home security cameras, parking in well-lit areas, and removing valuables from inside their vehicle.
An increasingly popular option for protecting vehicles is the use of technology that connects directly to the owner’s smartphones. Devices like Garmin’s GPS trackers not only provide surveillance, but also the ability to receive real-time alerts if the vehicle is being tampered with. Should the vehicle be stolen, the device can track its whereabouts, ultimately leading to faster recovery and greater peace of mind for the owner.
Such innovations are not just limited to aftermarket devices; Some automakers like Tesla offer advanced safety systems that are built right into the vehicle. Tesla’s Sentry Mode, for example, is a feature that, when activated, uses the car’s external cameras and sensors to detect a security event while the vehicle is parked. Not only does this deter theft, but it also promises potential help to law enforcement by providing valuable evidence and insight that might not otherwise be available.
Additionally, using services like OnStar and LoJack can further increase vehicle security by working with law enforcement to track down stolen cars. However, it is crucial for owners to understand the need to actively activate and monitor the security features available to them.
Prevention is often the best protection.
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