From: OPP West Region Twitter
Orillia OPP is warning the owners of newer model pickup trucks and SUVs to be aware of organized criminals targeting those vehicles across the province.
Police are warning of thieves who typically scout the area before the thefts take place recording vehicle identification numbers and checking for alarm systems, and then return under the cover of darkness and take the vehicles either late at night or very early in the morning.
OPP is also warning that part of the theft is to copy or amplify the frequencies from key fobs for vehicles.
Police are offering these tips to keep your vehicle safe:
– Report suspicious activity in your neighbourhood
– Park your vehicle in a well-lit area, or park your vehicle in a secure garage
– Place your keys in a “faraday bag” and do not store them by your front door or near windows. The bag will isolate your fob’s signal and prevent its frequency from being copied or amplified
– Consider installing a security camera at your residence. This can alert you, often in real-time, to suspicious activity occurring on your property
– A steering wheel lock, such as “The Club” can make your vehicle a less desirable target
– Install a secondary audible alarm. These alarms can alert you or your neighbours to suspicious activity or attempted threats on your property
– Use temporary means to cover the VIN displayed on the front windshield of your vehicle. Do not alter or modify it.
– Store your vehicle ownership, proof of insurance, and any other sensitive documents in your wallet or purse, not your glove box