Apple AirTags linked to increasing number of Car Thefts in Canada

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The York Regional Police in Canada has issued a news release letting the public know that there has been an increase in Car Thefts because of Apple AirTags.

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The below is the actual news release:

Investigators with the York Regional Police Auto/Cargo Theft Unit are advising residents they have identified a new method being used by thieves to track and steal high-end vehicles across York Region.

Since September 2021, officers have investigated five incidents where suspects have placed small tracking devices on high-end vehicles so they can later locate and steal them. Brand name ‘air tags’ are placed in out-of-sight areas of the target vehicles when they are parked in public places like malls or parking lots. Thieves then track the targeted vehicles to the victim’s residence, where they are stolen from the driveway.

Thieves typically use tools like screwdrivers to enter the vehicles through the driver or passenger door, while ensuring not to set off alarms. Once inside, an electronic device, typically used by mechanics to reprogram the factory setting, is connected to the onboard diagnostics port below the dashboard and programs the vehicle to accept a key the thieves have brought with them. Once the new key is programmed, the vehicle will start and the thieves drive it away.

Over the past year, more than 2,000 vehicles have been stolen across the region. The Auto/Cargo Theft Unit and uniform officers have remained active and aggressive in efforts to combat this issue including initiating several major projects which has led to more than 100 people arrested, significant charges laid and approximately 350 vehicles being recovered in the last year. Despite this success, thieves are constantly developing new methods to facilitiate these thefts the number of vehicle thefts continue to rise.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to consider the following safety tips to help prevent their vehicles from being stolen:

If possible, park your vehicle in a locked garage. Most vehicles are stolen from a driveway

Use a steering wheel lock. It will also act as a visible deterrent

Install a lock on the data port. This simple device can be purchased online and blocks access to the computer port where the thieves gain access to reprogram the vehicle’s keys

Consider purchasing a quality video surveillance system. Ensure cameras are properly placed and functioning for day and night time use. Familiarize yourself with the system so it can be reviewed and accessed easily

Inspect your vehicle regularly and call police if you notice any suspicious potential tracking devices

Videos with tips and information can be found here: https://youtu.be/MDAzggRnfAU and https://youtu.be/WswKQxGOgWI

Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police Auto/Cargo Theft Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6651, or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com

Prepared by: Constable Laura Nicolle