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Auto Guard 2.0: Enlisting your help in the fight against vehicle theft
After a successful launch in 2023, York Regional Police will kick off Operation Auto Guard 2.0 in Fall 2024.
Community safety is a shared responsibility, and we need your help in the fight against auto theft. That's why Operation Auto Guard 2.0 features a two-pronged approach: Crime prevention education and strategic enforcement.
This year, York Regional Police will focus on expanding our reach by delivering crime prevention messaging in several languages popular in areas frequented by car thieves.
Take these six steps to protect yourself from vehicle theft
Do not leave valuables in your vehicle
Thieves don't need much of a reason to break into your vehicle, so don't give them one by leaving valuables inside. This includes phones, purses, wallets, electronics, luggage, gifts, etc.
If you must store items of value in your car, keep them out of sight, locking them in the glove box or trunk.
Install a GPS-tracking device or a kill switch in your vehicle
Installing a GPS-tracking device in your vehicle may provide police with a better chance in locating it successfully. Integrated GPS-tracking systems can be professionally installed, though low-cost options, like an Apple Airtag, may still be helpful.
If using a device like an Airtag, ensure it is hidden in an area not easily located by thieves.
Invest in outdoor cameras for your home
Purchasing outdoor security cameras for your home will provide police with important information in the event your car does get stolen. From video footage, police may learn suspect descriptions, direction of travel, and the methods thieves used to steal the vehicle, which can all prove important in an investigation.
The sight of security cameras may also deter thieves from approaching your vehicle in the first place.
Use a steering wheel lock
Often, thieves are looking for quick-and-easy targets.
A steering wheel lock, while simple, is a visual deterrent. It will take time and effort to break or disable, which may be enough to keep your car from being targeted by thieves.
Lock the vehicle and keep key fobs stored in a Faraday bag
Locking your vehicle costs no money or time, but may go a long way to preventing thieves from choosing your car as their target.
Once the car is locked, place the keys in a Faraday bag, which is specially designed to prevent thieves from copying your key fob using radio frequencies. Store the Faraday bag away from the front door.
Park in a closed and locked garage, if possible
Not everyone has access to a garage. So, if you do, use it!
Parking your vehicle in a closed, locked garage will help prevent easy access for thieves, while also making you safer when entering or exiting your car.
Crime prevention resources
Watch: Six steps to prevent vehicle theft (English)
Taking these steps could prevent your car from being stolen, and help police in the event that it becomes the target of thieves.
Watch: Be aware of tracking devices
Criminals are using simple tracking technology as a tool to steal automobiles. Watch this video to learn what technique thieves are using to target vehicles and how you can protect yours.
Postcard (English)
Cantonese resources
Postcard (printable)
Videos
Mandarin resources
Postcard (printable)
Videos
Farsi (Persian) resources
Postcard (printable)
Videos
Russian resources
Postcard (printable)
Look out for us in your neighbourhood - and online
Our focus on crime prevention includes having officers fan out across neighbourhoods prone to vehicle theft
Our crime prevention messaging is being provided in York Region's most popular languages, including English, Traditional and Simplified Chinese, Farsi and Russian.
York Regional Police will also post important safety messages and updates about our ongoing auto theft campaign and enforcement efforts to our social media accounts using #YRPAutoGuard. Be sure to follow us and subscribe today.