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I wanted to provide an update regarding the theft of motor vehicles, which members around this area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the Met Engage priority survey. Protect your motorcycle, moped or scooter from theft
Over 9,000 scooters, motorcycles and mopeds were stolen in London in the last year.
Thieves only need a matter of seconds to steal a moped, scooter or motorcycle - especially if they are left with poor security - but our tips will help reduce the chance of theft.
Lock, chain, cover
Reduce your risk of becoming a victim by taking steps to layer your security.
Lock
Use a disc lock to help secure the front brake disc, or a grip lock to secure the brake and throttle controls. You could also use a D lock on the front wheel to stop it being wheeled away.
Chain
Thieves often steal a bike by breaking the steering lock and wheeling it away. Use a chain lock through the back wheel (the front wheel can be removed). Secure your bike, with the lock taut to an immovable object such as a ground anchor or street furniture. This will stop thieves from cutting a lock trailing on the ground using an angle grinder. If this isn’t possible, thread the chain through your bike frame and back wheel.
Cover
Thieves often ‘shop’ for particular bike models. Using a cover instantly makes it less attractive to them. A cover also provides another time consuming obstacle for the thief.
Unfortunately security measures can’t guarantee your bike won’t be stolen but, by using multiple security measures, you can make it harder and less attractive for thieves.
For security products for your scooter, motorcycle or moped search the ‘Accredited products’ page on Secured by Design (a police-approved website).
For further information and advice, visit Sold Secure.
Remove the keys
Thieves are often opportunists and so they will look for bikes that are quick and easy to steal first.
Always use the steering lock and remove the ignition keys, even if you are close by or away for a few minutes. It only takes a few seconds for a thief so don’t make it easy for them.
Never rely on just using your steering lock to secure your bike as thieves can break the steering lock and simply wheel the bike away.
Fitting an alarm can be a deterrent to thieves
Consider fitting a Thatcham-rated 1 or 2 alarm system with tracking, immobilisation, anti-grab and movement sensors can help protect and trace your vehicle.
A quality Thatcham approved, professionally fitted alarm system will not only put off thieves, but could also reduce your insurance premiums.
Property mark the parts
Marking as much of your bike as possible will make it more difficult for criminals to sell parts on, and therefore less attractive to steal. It will also help police identify parts and return recovered stolen bikes.
There are a range of bike marking providers that you can use.
When at home the best place to keep your motorcycle, moped or scooter is in your garage or shed
Fit a garage door defender or upgrade garage door locks.
Garage and shed alarms as well as low level dusk to dawn lighting will also enhance security. Fitting a ground anchor also provides extra security.
Motorcycle lockers are also available to store your bike at home.
No shed or garage? Park in the safest place you can
Park it in an area near to your home where it’s well overlooked with good lighting.
A Park Mark approved car park has a higher level of security than other car parks.
If your bike is stolen, never put yourself at risk. Call police immediately on 999 if you see it being stolen or report a crime online if you discover it has gone.
What we’re doing to reduce scooter theft
Regular operations to identify, disrupt and arrest offenders.
We are mounting operations to arrest those responsible; using faster bikes to catch criminals, “stinger” devices to deflate tyres and a forensic spray to mark individuals committing offences.
Working with Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) providers to ensure scooter security awareness is embedded as part of training new riders.
Working with employers in hotspot areas to run events to educate staff.
Educating the public on the steps they can take to help reduce their vulnerability to both theft of scooters and theft snatch.
Speaking to companies that use scooters as delivery vehicles about strategies to improve the safety of their bikes.
Help us to reduce further crime
Stolen scooters are increasingly being used to commit further crimes, such as phone snatches. By protecting your scooter you could help to reduce these other crimes.
 We know that people can be concerned about the personal and financial impact of having their vehicle stolen, which is why we will pursue and arrest those who break the law. Please consider taking the following steps to keep your vehicle safe: Check that your vehicle is locked and secure every time you leave it. Thieves often look for easy opportunities to steal from vehicles. They will usually try the handles until they get lucky and find one that has been left unlocked. Keep your keys safe, out of view when at home and away from your front door. If you have a keyless entry vehicle, keep the key well away from the vehicle while at home and turn off wireless signals on your fob when its not being used. Consider putting the keys in a screened or signal blocking pouch, such as a Faraday Bag and check that it is still working every few months. Park your vehicle in a private garage if you can. If you don’t have access to one, try to park in a well –lit open space. Try to use public car parks that are part of the police approved Park Mark safer parking scheme. Secure your number plates with tamper resistant screws to avoid them being stolen and used by others.
If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101. Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org. We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years. | 
