The number of stolen vehicles in the U.S. increased around 1% during 2023, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, which reported that total number of vehicles stolen during the year hit 1.02 million.
“Criminals are employing increasingly sophisticated methods to steal vehicles, including the use of advanced technology to bypass security systems,” David J. Glawe, president and CEO of NICB, said in a release. “From keyless entry hacks to relay attacks on key fobs, perpetrators are exploiting vulnerabilities in modern vehicle security measures with alarming success rates.”
The NICB reported that most thefts occur in urban centers and densely populated areas, with metro regions such as Washington, D.C. reporting more incidents when compared with suburbs and rural areas. Maryland and Washington, D.C., both saw the auto theft rates increase more than 60% in 2023.
Other areas with notable rises in auto thefts included Connecticut (33%), Nevada (18%), and Massachusetts (16%).
As auto thefts rise across the country, lawmakers are considering measures to stem the tides. For example, Missouri State Representative Steve Butz introduced legislation to establish an Auto Theft Prevention Commission. Missouri ranked among the top 10 states with the most auto thefts in 2023, with more than 27, 270 stolen vehicles.
The commission would help provide auto theft education to law enforcement and citizens, investigate and prosecute auto thieves, enhance collaboration between law enforcement agencies and increase crime scene processing of recovered stolen vehicles.
“Curbing vehicle thefts is about not only protecting property, but also enhancing public safety. Stolen vehicles are often used in other crimes, such as robberies, burglaries, and drug trafficking,” Butz said in a release.
To deter car thieves, the NICB recommends:
- Parking in well-lit areas.
- Ensuring all doors and windows are closed and locked when parking.
- Keep valuables out of sight.
- Do not leave the keys in the vehicle unattended.
- Do not leave an unattended vehicle running.
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