A recent report by Fleet News reveals that thieves are using stolen navigation devices to cause even more damage by guiding them to the rightful owner's home. By logging into searched (or saved) locations, or even following the last used route, thieves can follow your tracks and find where you live.
As worrying as these reports may seem, there are some simple ways to keep your belongings safe.
take it with you
The easiest way to prevent your navigation device from being stolen is to never leave it unattended. Hiding it in the glove compartment is fine for a short time, but for a longer time it is necessary to take it with you to keep it safe.
Keep it hidden
For short stops, it's okay to hide items so GPS or other valuables in your car don't draw unwanted attention. Leave it in the glove box, in the trunk, under the seat, or tucked away with a coat or jacket for short stops outside the car, e.g. B. to go to a shop or a friend's house. Always remove your valuables for long periods of time.
Cover your tracks
Thieves can tell if you are using a navigation device. How? Well, for starters, there are telltale signs all over your dash and windshield. There is no point in hiding or removing your sat nav if thieves can still see the stand or suction marks on the glass. Be sure to take any clips, chargers or stands and remove any traces from the screen. Thieves won't bother asking if you took the sat nav and will break into your car either way.
Hide other valuables
It's just as important to hide other valuables that might draw attention. A thief can discover a smartphone charger and find your GPS in the glove compartment at the same time. It's easy to forget that chargers are plugged in, a valuable stereo in a parked car, or accessories in the handbrake area, but all of this invites thieves to take a look at what you've got worth stealing. like advertising your stuff.
Check your windows
We're so used to everything being automated that we sometimes forget to close windows. Always ensure that windows, doors and sunroofs are properly closed and locked to minimize the risk of anyone tampering with your valuables. Likewise, on short trips like filling up at a gas station, we may be tempted to leave the car unlocked, but we leave ourselves easy targets for thieves.
Know your model
Everyone knows their brand of navigation devices, but what about the make, model and serial numbers? Make a note of all of this or keep your warranty and manual in a safe place at home for future reference in the event of theft. This will help the police track your GPS and have a better chance of it being returned. There are several products that can immobilize your navigation device and they require such details to do so.