Car crime in the UK has fallen to its lowest level since 1993, according to a recent report by the Home Office.
The report says that since 1993, the number of vehicle crimes reported has fallen by as much as 80 per cent. This has occurred despite the number of vehicles in the UK increasing to an estimated eight million since 1993.
The figures from the Home Office indicate that nowadays there are around ten vehicle break-ins for every 1,000 vehicles. That’s far less frequent than back in 1993, when there would be about 20 vehicles stolen and 40 broken into for every 1,000.
In regards why the level of car crime has declined so steeply, an increase in the fitment of anti-theft devices as standard, such as steering locks and electronic immobilisers, has been pinpointed as a primary reason.
Number plate recognition cameras, CCTV surveillance near roads and vehicle tracking devices are other pieces of technology which are seen to have dissuaded criminals from breaking into or stealing cars.
The Home Office’s report does also point out, however, that many of those who do steal a car nowadays adopt a tactic known as “pinch and park”.
The method sees a thief steal a vehicle and then park it somewhere discreet for several days in case police can trace the vehicle’s location via GPS data from an on-board security device. This tactic is particular popular among car thieves that target 4x4s, performance cars or luxury cars.
Check out our tips for minimising the risk of being a victim of car theft
