Over the last few years there has been a startling rise in auto thefts in the province; a 78 percent increase since 2020. Newer luxury vehicles are being targeted as they provide higher rates of profit and the majority of these thefts are occurring between midnight and 4 a.m.
Methods have changed with the introduction of more technology in our cars and many thefts can now happen in as little as two minutes. Thieves are now able to use a scanner to clone your key fob by intercepting the radio signal it emits and make a reusable copy to enter, start and drive away with your automobile.
Constable James Clarke told us starting in April, the Ontario Provincial Police are beginning Project Clasp to help combat these thefts.
A public event on April 2nd will kick off Project Clasp at the Enroute on Hwy 400 in King City where you can learn more, and get a free faraday sack to protect your key fobs from being cloned.
The Northumberland OPP detachment will also have free faraday sacks available as of April 2nd.
Clarke told us that auto thefts have taken place since cars were introduced, but the rise in violence is concerning.
Car-jackings are also becoming more prevalent and Clarke told us that some thieves will even cause a rear-end collision in order to get you out of your car so accomplices can get in and drive off with it. James says if you’re in such a fender-bender to lock your doors, take note of the make, model, colour and licence plate of the other automobile as well as any characteristics of the driver and any passengers and don’t exit the vehicle until you believe it’s safe to do so – if you don’t feel safe – call local police or 911.
Clarke says that there are things you can do to protect yourself and your ride in the event of a car-jacking.
You can also drive to a police station or a gas station which has cameras installed to deter thieves.
To keep your vehicle safe you can also install an aftermarket device to prevent thieves from starting your vehicle by accessing the on-board diagnostics panel. This will prevent them from being able to make a connection using the on-board diagnostics port which might otherwise provide them with full access to your vehicle and allow them to drive off with it.
Other suggestions to protect your ride include:
Have GPS tracking devices installed
Use a steering wheel lock bar
Park in your garage
Keep your keys in a faraday pouch – which you will be able to pick up for free from the Northumberland OPP detachment after April 2.
Clarke also told us that if you’re in the market for a used vehicle you can take advantage of a free online service to check that the prospective vehicle has not been reported stolen (https://www.cpic-cpic.ca/index-eng.htm).
Earlier this month, Northumberland OPP setup a safe trade area at the detachment as part of Project Safe Trade. The space is part of the parking area where you can meet to buy or sell items you’ve found online. The designated spots are identified by signage and offer a public space for you to make your deal free from concern you’ll become a victim.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
