After a slight decrease in April, the risk of theft continues to increase in recent months, reaching a peak in August. The figures were released by RTL on 25 September 2023, highlighting an overall 50% increase in flights this summer, with an impressive 100% increase in August.

Law enforcement officers note that thieves are increasingly better organized and equipped. “Old” break-ins with broken windows are becoming less and less common. today, more than 80% of flights are carried out with the help of complex electronic systems. Sometimes one or two minutes are enough to steal a vehicle.

SUVs and hybrids at the forefront

SUVs have proven to be a prime target for thieves this summer, with the risk of theft increasing by 75% compared to the previous summer.

These fancy vehicles are easily resold, making them attractive to criminals. SUV thefts account for 65% of all stolen vehicles.

Another category of vehicles that has received particular attention this summer is hybrids. The risk of theft of these models has tripled in one year. Hybrids are in demand not only because of their cost, and for their spare parts, especially catalytic converters. These pollution control devices contain rare metals such as platinum or iridium, which are sold at high prices on the black market.

This wave of thefts did not escape the residents of the city, who accounted for 16% of the cars stolen this summer. Compared to the summer of 2022, the risk of theft has increased significantly in some regions, notably Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes (+73%), PACA (+44%) and Ile-de-France (+30%). %).

How to minimize risks?

As mentioned above, the vast majority of thefts are carried out electronically. The simple fact of leaving your keys in your driveway can lead to burglary if your car is parked out front.

One of the thieves waves the receiver in front of the car owner’s house, and his accomplice receives the signal in front of the door. The car opens and starts immediately, without signs of tampering.

Full of electronics, SUVs and new cars in general are easy to break into. To protect yourself from this, don’t leave your car keys near windows or doors or put them in an aluminum-lined pocket. Locking the steering wheel with a suitable system can also prevent attempted theft.

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