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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. The Metropolitan Police Service recommends taking layered security measures to reduce the risk of vehicle theft:
Lock it properly – Always lock doors, close windows and sunroofs, and double-check the vehicle is secure.
Remove valuables – Take personal items with you and avoid leaving anything on display.
Use additional security devices – Fit steering wheel locks, pedal locks, or gearstick locks to deter thieves.
Install tracking and immobilisers – Approved tracking systems and immobilisers make vehicles harder to steal and easier to recover.
Park smartly – Park in well-lit, busy areas or secure car parks. At home, use a garage if possible.
Protect keyless vehicles – Keep keys away from doors and windows, use signal-blocking (Faraday) pouches, and consider disabling keyless entry if possible.
Secure number plates – Use tamper-resistant screws to prevent theft for use in other crimes.
Using multiple security measures significantly reduces the likelihood of your vehicle being targeted.
 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. | 
