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PHILADELPHIA, PA – The Philadelphia Police Department is proud to launch its targeted “Together, We Can Prevent Auto Theft” campaign, aimed at protecting residents from the evolving threat of stolen vehicles driven by innovative and high-tech criminal tactics. While recent reports indicate a national decline in vehicle thefts, law enforcement officials in Philadelphia remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding the community. In response to emerging high tech tactics employed by criminals – such as relay devices and keyless entry hacking – the PPD is launching the “Together, We Can Prevent Auto Theft” campaign. This targeted effort seeks to educate car owners about the latest criminal methods and provide practical tips to help prevent thefts. “Securing your vehicle inside and out is an essential part of the fight against theft,” said Philadelphia Police Lieutenant Brian Geer, of Major Crimes. “By preventing unauthorized access to your vehicle and the vehicle’s internal systems, we can significantly reduce the risk of thieves exploiting workarounds to a vehicle’s security – making our streets safer for everyone.” The campaign will include informational fliers, community workshops, and social media outreach focusing on strategies such as: installing anti-theft devices; being vigilant about key fob placement and storage; securing vehicles with additional locking mechanisms. Most break-ins occur through broken windows, sunroofs, or door handles, with the peak theft hours between 10:00 p.m. and 4:00 a.m. however with so many cars now using key fobs and keyless entry, criminals have figured out how to highjack a car using technology. In 2023, more than 24,000 cars were stolen but that number significantly dropped to 14,000 in 2024, after researching and addressing auto trends. Community Relations Officers will continue going door-to-door in “hot spot” neighborhoods to share information. They will also hold community events to provide free steering wheel locks for owners of targeted vehicles and to remind residents that they can still visit their district location and receive one as well. In the meantime, some PPD prevention tips for car owners: Take Your Keys and Lock All Doors-Every Time; Park In Well-Lit Areas; Never Leave Your Car Running Unattended; Invest In Security Deterrents, (such as steering wheel locks, alarms, kill switches, or On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) locks and faraday bags); and Check With Your Dealership for Vehicle Updates. Together through awareness and community collaboration, we can prevent auto theft and enhance safety. Visit: watchyourcar.org for more information.