Hot Holiday Gift Could Attract Thieves

December 23, 2007

So you want a portable global positioning system (GPS) for Christmas. It’s a hot-selling item this year, with retailers like Garmin and TomTom competing for your dollars. For directionally-challenged consumers, these items are a must-have. Whether you get lost near home or want reassurance when you’re traveling in an unfamiliar area, portable GPS units are a relatively inexpensive high-tech helper.

But thieves are also eyeing your new toy. Dash-mounted GPS units are easy pickings for those bent on crime. A quick smash and grab is all it takes and you’re replacing a window and your recent purchase.

So what can you do to protect your property? First, remove the GPS from view when you park. Seems obvious, doesn’t it? Many people are in a hurry and forget to remove temptation from plain sight. Put up a shade and cover the unit. Take it out of the mounting bracket. But an empty bracket could alert thieves as well, so try finding a removable bracket or suction mount, or cover the empty one. Once you remove the unit, hide it under a seat, in the glove box, or even under an old sweatshirt. Better yet, toss it in your bag and take it with you.

Whether you’re at the mall this holiday season, or just parked at home, a thief could take an obvious opportunity to relieve you of your possessions. Taking a moment to deter them could save you money and the hassle of repairing your car. Ensure a happy, theft-free holiday season with a little prevention. You’ve got better things to do, like figure out who gets that last piece of pecan pie.

Photo courtesy of aslakr.

By Becky Scott
Contributing Editor