- Vehicle theft up from 104,435 to 130,389
- Theft from vehicle exceeds 212,500 last year
- “The rise in vehicle and residential thefts are worrying for
everyone” says AA Insurance MD
Analysis of statistics released from the Office of National
Statistics (ONS) by AA Insurance Services show a substantial hike
vehicle theft increased by 24.9%* in 2022 compared to the
previous year. Similarly, theft from vehicles rose by 9.9% and
residential burglary increased by 2.9%.
Across England in Wales in 2021, 104,435 had their vehicles
stolen compared to 130,389 last year. For the same period (2022)
212,900 people had items stolen out of their vehicle compared to
193,647 the year before. Devon and Cornwall Police were unable to
supply figures to the ONS, so the true figure is likely to be
higher.
The worrying rise in theft of personal property highlights
concerns from the AA regarding police priorities when it comes to
tackling car crime and the increasing use of technology by
thieves to target victims.
Car crime goes hi-tech
When it comes to taking cars, thieves are keeping pace with
manufacturers by using a variety of hi-tech methods to steal
them. Relay theft, key cloning and signal blocking continue to be
the main methods of illegally obtaining vehicles.
However, as manufacturers improve key security and encourage
drivers to put keys to sleep to reduce these types of theft,
criminals are using new advanced practices to attack vehicle
security systems.
When it comes to taking things from cars, faster and more
traditional methods are adopted such as smashing windows or
forcing windows and doors open are adopted to gain phones,
wallets, and other valuable possessions.
AA Insurance Services are reminding drivers not to store
valuables in their vehicles if possible, or at the very least
advising drivers to keep items hidden away. Visible deterrents
such as using a steering wheel lock plays a crucial role in
keeping thieves at bay, deterring criminals because these devices
cannot be overcome by the technology now being used by gangs to
steal cars.
Although nothing is fool proof, this deterrent is likely to make
the thief move on to the next unprotected car.
Hiding valuables at home
In 2022, 191,094 people had items stolen from their homes
compared to 185,683 in 2021. As items such as laptops, tablets,
mobile phones, and jewellery remain the main targets for
criminals they are also keen to add other easy to sell items to
their swag bags. Bikes, lawn mowers, barbecues, pizza ovens and
games consoles are all highly prized by thieves.
The rise of doorbell cameras is helping identify and spot
criminal activity, but where possible households should consider
additional security measures such as alarm systems. As a minimum,
high value possessions should be hidden away if possible or
marked with covert markings such as SmartWater.
Gus Park, managing director for AA Insurance Services, said: “The
rise in vehicle and residential thefts are worrying for everyone
and highlights that security of both car and home are vitally
important.
“These figures are in danger of getting out of control, which if
left to spiral further will have big cost implications in terms
of the impact to wider society let alone the price policy holders
pay. We urge Police Chiefs and Crime Commissioners across the
country to create an action plan to crack the case.
“Unfortunately, there is no one thing that can guarantee keeping
your car safe from theft, but just making it a bit harder for the
thieves can make it less likely that they’ll go for your
car. Don’t give miscreants an easy win, make them think
about finding an easier target than your pride and joy.
“When it comes to protecting your home, making sure high value
possessions are recorded on your home insurance policy is key.
Consideration should also be made regarding where items are
hidden when not in use, especially car keys. Additional security
measures such as doorbell cameras and alarm systems*** are well
worth investing in to upgrade your home.”
ends
NOTES TO EDITORS
* ONS Crime Statistics can be found here: Crime in England and
Wales: Appendix tables - Office for National Statistics
(ons.gov.uk)
** Car crime | AA (theaa.com)
*** Tips to help keep your
home safe and secure | AA Insurance (theaa.com)
