Uncommon Objects Thieves Target for Theft
In Victoria, a growing array of items are being targeted by thieves, from precious metals in catalytic converters to hidden surveillance devices and even vehicles equipped with electronic push start technology. Here's a guide to help you safeguard your property and pets against these unconventional threats.
Catalytic converters, made from precious metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium, can be worth more than gold. Unfortunately, cars sold in Australia since 1986 are required to have a catalytic converter fitted, making them an attractive target for thieves. To protect your car, ensure you have adequate motor insurance and regularly review your coverage to avoid being underinsured.
Pet theft, especially dog theft, has increased in Victoria, with 256 pets stolen in the year to June 2024. To prevent pet theft, pets can be microchipped, smart GPS trackers can be used, and dogs should not be left tied up alone in public places.
Unconventional items frequently targeted by thieves include vehicles equipped with electronic push start technology and hidden surveillance devices. Thieves exploit technology, using devices that can reprogram car keys, override security systems, or start cars without a physical ignition key. To protect against such thefts, install on-board diagnostic (OBD) port locks to prevent unauthorized electronic access to vehicles with push start systems.
Copper cable theft is a growing issue in Victoria, with thieves stealing copper wire from construction sites, ground pits, and railway stations for a lucrative market price. Copper wire theft can cause power outages, expose live wires, and cause vehicle accidents due to streetlights and traffic lights going out. Installing CCTV cameras, security patrols, and tracking devices can help deter and catch construction site thieves.
Theft prevention often involves not keeping valuables in plain sight, locking up properly, and considering aftermarket security systems like steering wheel locks or anti-theft screws for cars. Number plate theft can involve physical removal from cars or virtual cloning from online photos. Installing anti-theft screws and blurring number plates in images of cars can help prevent number plate theft.
Building supplies such as bricks, timber, and other construction materials are being stolen from unattended building sites, particularly new housing estates. To deter construction site thieves, consider installing motion-detecting lights and alarm systems.
Theft of vegetables from community gardens and household vegetable patches has increased due to high food costs. To deter vegetable theft, pick crops as soon as they are ripe, dust growing crops with flour, and use signage to warn against harvesting.
In addition to these practical measures, building a sense of community vigilance can also help. Engage with neighbors to watch over each other's properties, especially when homes are unoccupied, creating a community watch-like environment. Keep an eye out for unusual or out-of-place items in yards, including possible concealed cameras, and report suspicious findings to authorities. Trimming hedges and shrubs to remove hiding spots that could conceal surveillance devices or intruders can also help.
Recent Victorian legislative reforms aim to target repeat offenders involved in home invasion and burglary, potentially reducing the incidence of such crimes over time. For immediate action, if you witness copper cable theft, call Triple Zero (000) to report it, or anonymously report it to Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000.
In summary, to protect against technologically sophisticated vehicle thefts and covert surveillance theft tactics, a combination of physical security measures, community vigilance, and technology-based anti-theft products is recommended. By taking these steps, you can help reduce the risk of becoming a victim of theft in Victoria.
[1] Source: Victoria Police [2] Source: RACV [3] Source: Victorian Government
- To safeguard your home-and-garden against theft, consider installing motion-detecting lights and alarm systems to deter construction site thieves targeting valuable building supplies.
- Besides physical protection, building a sense of community vigilance can help in preventing crimes such as number plate theft and property invasions in the lifestyle sector. Engage with neighbors to create a community watch-like environment, watching over each other's properties and keeping an eye out for any suspicious activities.
