According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) 850,708 vehicles were stolen in 2024 in the United States. Don’t Be a part of this statistic. While a highly skilled thief can steal any car with enough determination, using a comprehensive, layered approach to vehicle security can make your pride & joy too risky for the pros and too difficult for the amateurs and joyriders. Nothing can make your car impossible to steal, especially if your car is very valuable in overseas markets. But with the proper planning, you can make it improbable that a thief won’t move on to an easier, less risky target. We will also go over ways to help prepare for a quick recovery in the event your other security measures are overcome. Not every item in this guide may be applicable or necessary to your specific vehicle and situation, but the more you utilize, the harder of a target your car will be. Many items on the list serve more than one purpose, such as how a “Club” can be both a deterrent and a way of making the car undriveable. Separating the guide into different layers was done for ease of reading. It is recommended that you use as many security measures from each layer as possible, as this will slow down the thieves more and act as a fail-safe should one of the other measures not work properly.
Table of Contents
Layer 1: Deterrence and Making Entry More Difficult
“The Obvious”
We’re not going to spend a long time talking about this one, as it’s just common sense- but, nonetheless, very important. Don’t let your guard down just because you’re only going into the gas station for a cold six pack. Leave your car running and that nice crackhead that just asked for a dollar is going to be riding around in style. These crimes of opportunity are the easiest to prevent.
- DON’T LEAVE YOUR CAR RUNNING WHILE YOU’RE NOT IN IT!!!! ( Your insurance likely won’t even cover your loss due to negligence).
- Always lock your doors.
- Don’t leave your windows open- at all. Even slightly cracked windows present an easy opportunity to get inside quietly and quickly.
- Always take your keys with you- come on, it’s not that hard!
- Park in well-lit areas.
- Park close to your destination, in an area with plenty of people around if you can.
- Avoid leaving your car in high-crime areas if possible.
- If you see suspicious activity, such as people scoping out other cars, or following others while carrying something that could hold a cloning device, consider going or parking elsewhere. If your gut tells you to be wary—you probably should.
Aftermarket Alarm Systems
Adding an alarm system to your car can be a worthwhile investment for preventing theft. But you need to get a quality system, and have it installed by professionals. A regular car alarm that just makes your horn go off will likely not do a great job of deterring thieves, most people, especially in larger cities, ignore car alarms going off as it is such a regular occurrence. It might scare off some, but most criminals aren’t too afraid of it, and many know how to avoid setting off factory alarm systems in certain vehicles. Luckily, nicer aftermarket alarm systems can do much more than cause a bit of noise, and can be harder for thieves to avoid setting off. Many alarm systems have features like:
- Starter Immobilizers that prevent car from being started if alarm is armed- even with the key.
- 2-way notifications that alert you via your key fob or phone when your alarm is going off.
- Shock sensors that set off alarm when vehicle is hit
- Audio glass break sensors that listen for your glass being broken
- Tilt Sensors that can detect if your vehicle is being towed or jacked up to steal wheels.
- Built in GPS
- Blinking light for deterrence
(Read more about aftermarket alarm systems here.)
“The Club” and Similar Devices
Steering wheel locks (A.K.A “The Club”) are probably the most well-known car theft prevention device out there. While certainly not foolproof, a good majority of thieves do not want to spend the time and attract extra attention by cutting one off. It’s easier for them just to find a car without one. What makes The Club a great addition to your security is they are inexpensive and come in bright colors that a thief can see through your window, and even though it won’t stop them all, it does greatly reduce your risk, and may cause someone to move on before smashing your window. (Read more about clubs here.)
Jimmi’ Jammer
*As of 2026, it appears that Jimmi’ Jammers are no longer being produced. Currently, the only alternative product we can find is for Ford Super Duty/Excursion, however you may be able to find New Old Stock Jimmi’ Jammers for your model on eBay or elsewhere*
Primarily available for older trucks and SUVs, the Jimmi’ Jammer produced by Redline Technical Group is a device that is installed behind your door handle to prevent a thief from easily punching out your lock cylinder or “jimmying” your door open with a screwdriver underneath the handle. Many thieves gain entry to your vehicle this way as it is much less likely to draw attention than smashing a window and can be very easy on certain models like older GM trucks/SUVs and Ford Super Duty/Excursion. If this is available for your vehicle, it’s most likely vulnerable to such an attack and this product would be a smart investment. When paired with a good 2-way alarm, it can increase the amount of time between you being notified of a break-in and the thieves actually gaining entry/driving off in your vehicle. It also may cause them to move on sooner if your truck is more difficult than normal. (Read more about Jimmi Jammers here.)
IGLA Keyless Block
The IGLA Keyless Block is an anti-theft device for vehicles equipped with proximity keys that allow the doors to be unlocked automatically when the key is close enough. It works by disabling this feature when the IGLA device’s Bluetooth key fob, or your phone is too far away, which keeps a thief’s cloned key from unlocking the car. (Read more about IGLA Keyless Block Here)
Shatter-resistant Film for Windows
Many tint shops can install a security film on your windows that can make them much harder to get through when broken. Compare it to how the laminated glass of a windshield stay together after an impact for your safety. Many auto manufacturers are also using laminated glass on the front door windows for safety reasons in an accident, which is why you commonly see back windows used in vehicle break-ins, as they are typically made of tempered glass, which is harder but shatters into thousands of pieces. Security film can also be a good option for sunroofs, which thieves break on some models to avoid setting off the alarm. Keep in mind that adding security film to your car windows could create a safety hazard should you be in an emergency where you need to escape your car by breaking the window, so it’s always important to weigh the risks. (Read more about window film here.)
“Boots”/Wheel Locks and Similar Devices
I’m sure you’ve seen someone’s car get “booted” before for parking in the wrong spot. You can purchase wheel locks like this too. They are a bit cumbersome to use in day-to-day life so only get one of these if you’re actually going to use it. They can be a good deterrent and create more work and risk of being caught for a thief. It’s definitely a good addition to other security measures if you’re leaving your car unattended for a while like when going on vacation. But remember, an important part of your security plan is choosing devices you will actually use! (Read more about wheel locks here.)
Dash Camera
Using an inward facing dash camera may help deter thieves, and aid in apprehension should they break into or steal your car. But it is definitely an addition to a good security plan and not something to rely on unless you just want to be able to watch your car being taken. Keep in mind, these cameras can usually be disabled quickly by a thief, and may have limitations for retrieving footage after a theft. Compustar offers cameras that pair with their alarm systems.
Gear Shifter Lock
Similar to a club, a gear shifter lock is a good visual deterrent that will add a significant amount of time required to take your car. It works by prohibiting your shifter from moving, making thieves unable to get your car out of park when properly installed. There’s a good chance they will not want to take the time to cut it off, and even if they do, it increases the chance they will be caught in the act. (See more about gear shifter locks here.)
Brake/Clutch Pedal Locks
Brake and Clutch pedal locks come in multiple shapes and sizes, but all work by preventing the pedal from being pushed down, which, depending on your car can prevent it from being shifted and/or started. This adds another step a thief has to overcome, but is not as good of a visual deterrent as steering wheel locks and are a bit more of a pain to use regularly, as it will typically require standing outside the car to install. (Read more about pedal locks here.)
Drive a Car with a Manual Transmission
They’re getting less common nowadays- and so are people who can drive them. I’m not suggesting you trade in a car you love just because it’s an automatic. But, if you’re looking at buying a vehicle and don’t mind driving a stick-shift, it will eliminate a good portion of would-be thieves. Please don’t use this as your only anti-theft tactic though.
Layer 2: Prevent Vehicle from Starting
Immobilizing Devices
There are many types of devices designed to prevent unauthorized people from starting your car. Choosing the right one is an important part of your anti-theft plan, especially on older vehicles which are not equipped with any form of security key (read how to tell here). But even if your car does have a factory starter interrupt system, installing the right secondary immobilizing device can fool or delay a thief that knows how to get past the factory security system. Here are some different options of immobilizing devices that can be installed in your vehicle:
- Ravelco– The Ravelco is one of the most effective options to prevent your car from being started, however, it is rather expensive, typically costing around $800-$1,000. It works by using a unique plug, typically located under your dash or steering wheel, that is discretely wired deep into your vehicle’s wiring harness, that disables a critical component of your starting system, leaving your vehicle unable to start when the plug is removed. It is important to remember that the Ravelco will not work if you fail to remove the plug and take it with you when you leave your vehicle. (Read more about Ravelco here.)
- IGLA Anti-Theft System– Primarily for newer vehicles, the IGLA Anti-Theft System is a high-tech, discreet vehicle immobilizer designed to prevent car theft by blocking the engine from starting unless a secret PIN code sequence is entered using existing vehicle controls, such as steering wheel buttons or window switches, or by utilizing their Bluetooth key fob or your phone. The IGLA system is deeply integrated with the vehicle’s electronic network and is resistant to relay attacks, key cloning, and CAN Bus hacking. It is difficult for thieves to detect or bypass. The system can also safely prevent theft while allowing the vehicle owner to switch it into service mode for maintenance without compromising security. (Read more about IGLA here.)
- Certain types of aftermarket alarm systems– In addition to all the other features, some models of alarm systems have a starter interrupt that will activate when the system is armed. These will greatly vary in cost depending on what you pick out, but will typically run you from around $500 to over $1,000 installed. The downside to the starter interrupt feature of alarm systems is that, generally speaking, they are easier for a thief to defeat than a Ravelco system, but they are a little easier to utilize consistently, as all you have to do is press the lock button on your alarm’s remote. You can typically use both an alarm system and the IGLA or Ravelco together for superior protection.(Read more on alarm systems here.)
- Kill switches– Kill switches are a less effective immobilizing device, but are better than nothing if you’re looking for a cheaper option. Kill switches are installed by wiring a hidden toggle switch, button, or even magnetic switch to your car’s starting system in a way that can prevent the car from starting when the switch is turned off. These are not as effective as other options because they do not require a unique plug or remote to activate/deactivate the system. So, if a thief finds your switch, he’s back in business. If you go this route, I would recommend spending the time to find a really good hiding spot for the switch, and place an inoperable decoy switch semi-hidden under the dash to confuse the thieves. Kill switches can be installed by most mechanics or experienced DIYers. (Read more about kill switches here.)
- JDI Ghost Power RFID Kill Switch– The JDI Ghost Power RFID kill switch is a discreet and effective theft prevention device. This system uses a hidden RFID reader that only allows the vehicle to start when a programmed RFID tag is present—effectively acting as an invisible kill switch. Without the tag, power to the ignition system is cut, preventing unauthorized starting even if the thief has the key. While not necessarily as difficult to bypass as some of the more deeply integrated options, it offers the major advantage of not having to remove a plug, or flip a switch to offer protection.(See more about Ghost Power Here)
- JDI Ghost Key Push-To-Start Conversion– The Ghost Key push-to-start conversion by Jordan Distributors is a good anti-theft option for older vehicles without security keys. It works by replacing your car’s existing ignition with a push button ignition that requires an RFID tag to be scanned before the vehicle will start. The RFID key tags/card provided only work within a few inches, so they are not susceptible to relay attacks like traditional push-to-start keys, not to mention the fact that older vehicles that you would install this product on are highly unlikely to be targeted with a sophisticated relay attack. This product is available in a universal install model as well as “plug & play” models for many Kias, Hyundais, Lexuses, Toyotas, Hondas, Acuras, Nissans, and Infinitis.(See More Here)
- JDI Ghost Lock Tracking System/Remote Disable– The Ghost Lock allows you to track and remotely disable nearly any vehicle with an electronic fuel pump, allowing you to stop a thief in their tracks. (See more about Ghost Lock Here)
- Remote Battery Disconnect Switches– This is another low-cost option, but it comes with it’s share of downsides. Remote battery disconnect switches are easy to install yourself, if you can change your car’s battery you will be able to install one of these. They can be bought on Amazon for around $30. These switches work by going between your negative battery post and battery cable, allowing your car’s battery to be “disconnected” with the touch of a button on the included remote. The 2 main cons to these devices are, first, disabling the vehicle’s battery will also disable alarm systems, second, a determined thief will be able to disable the system easily if they open the hood. It is still a worthwhile option, especially for those on a budget. Many thieves do not want to diagnose why your car won’t start or doesn’t have power. Having your battery disconnected can have the benefit of preventing thieves who clone your key fob from gaining entry to the vehicle inconspicuously, and may think their clone is not working. (Read more on remote battery disconnect here.)
- Cyclops TAM-The Cyclops TAM replaces a relay in your vehicle and can be switched on or off using the included remote. When turned off it will prohibit your car from starting unless the relay is replaced, or you turn it back on with your remote. While not as difficult to bypass as the Ravelco or other professionally installed devices, it is a good option that is much more cost effective (costing around $150) and can easily be installed yourself. (See more here)
Removing a Fuse or Relay
One way to prevent your car from being started- that costs nothing- is to remove a fuse or relay that is required for the vehicle to start and put in your pocket or other secure location away from the vehicle. Thieves are unlikely to take the time to diagnose the reason your car won’t start and will likely move on to another vehicle. If you’re somewhat mechanically inclined you can just use your owner’s manual to determine which fuse to remove, or just consult your mechanic. Make sure you don’t remove a fuse necessary for other security features such as an alarm system, and be careful not to remove one that could damage your vehicle if a start up attempt is made without the fuse. Also be sure not to lose the fuse or you’ll be in for a bad time, especially if you aren’t at home. Using an immobilizing device is much easier than this method, but this can be a good additional measure if you’re vehicle is going to be left unattended for a long time, or if you’re just on a tight budget. Be aware that doing this regularly for extended periods of time could lead to extra wear on the electrical connections.
Faraday Pouch for Push to Start Keys
This is only useful if your car uses proximity keys (push button start). Many cars are stolen by thieves using devices that can clone the signal these types of keys produce. A faraday pouch is a little pouch that can block this signal from being detected, you can also get a faraday box for when you’re at home. The downside is that you will not be able to use the convenient functions of proximity keys while utilizing the pouch such as unlocking or starting your car with the key in your pocket, but to me that’s better than coming out to no car at all. Keep in mind that this type of key cloning is not the only method used to steal push to start cars, so using a faraday pouch/box is not a foolproof security measure and should be used alongside other anti-theft devices. Thieves also can use the CAN BUS attack or plugging in a locksmith computer to steal modern push-to-start vehicles. (See more about faraday pouches here.)
OBDII Port Lock
Many skilled thieves are able to duplicate keys or force cars to start using the onboard diagnostic port (OBDII port) that mechanics use to diagnose check engine lights on your vehicle. It is also used by locksmiths with a special computer to program new keys to your car. Unfortunately, this technology has fell into the hands of thieves as well, and can be used to steal your car relatively quickly. One way to combat this is to use a lock designed to block the port, which can make it difficult for them to gain access to your vehicles computer this way without damaging or destroying the port. A damaged OBD port is much better than a missing car. Keep in mind that this is not the only way that thieves can clone your keys, so while it certainly should be part of your security plan, other precautions need to be taken as well. This measure is most important on newer vehicles, especially those equipped with push-to-start keys, and can be useful on all models with programmable security keys. It will not be useful, however, if your car is older and does not have a “chipped” key that is programmed to your car’s computer. Read about how to tell if your car has a “chipped” security key here. (See more about OBD locks here.)
CAN Bus Shield
Metal shields are available for some models to make it more difficult to access the CAN Bus system from the exterior of the vehicle. (See more here)
Theft by Towing
If you’re worried about a tow truck taking your car- you might want to get caught up on your payments. All jokes aside, actual theft by towing is not very common, but it does happen occasionally. Unfortunately, there aren’t a whole lot of options to prevent this type of theft, so this is when having tracking capabilities is very important. But, here’s a few things you can do to make a crooked tow driver think twice:
- Keep your car in a garage if possible.
- When parking, turn your steering wheel all the way to the left or right and use a steering wheel lock.
- If your car is front-wheel drive, pull straight forward into your parking space, if it’s rear-wheel drive, back in so your front wheels are exposed to the road.
- All wheel drive and 4×4 (if engaged) are also more difficult to tow. Keep in mind they can still do it though.
- Use a wheel lock.
- 2-way alarm systems equipped with a tilt sensor can alert you of your car being towed as it is happening.
Hood Locks
Hood locks are available for certain makes and models and can make the hood of your car more difficult to open for a thief. This is most useful on certain older vehicles that can be started by jumping the starter solenoid, but can also prevent them from disconnecting your battery to silence your alarm.
Layer 3: If All Else Fails- Aiding in Recovery
Tracking Devices
You never want to need a tracking device in your car, but if you do, you’ll sure be glad you made the investment. Police will be able to recover your vehicle much faster, and likely in better condition if you can give them a location from your GPS. Being able to track your vehicle can also give you peace of mind by allowing you to see the location of your car at any time, and can be helpful if you forget where you parked. There are many options for tracking devices available, some are wired into your car’s electrical system, some battery powered (with surprisingly good battery life) as well as utilizing different tracking technologies such as GPS, Cellular, and Bluetooth. Each has it’s pros and cons, so for the best protection, it is recommended that you use more than one type of device, and don’t rely solely on trackers that are built-in to your car by the manufacturer, as thieves typically are already aware of these and will disable them quickly. (Read more about the different types of tracking devices here)
Stickers and Unique Modifications
Having things that make your car unique can be an advantage in a theft. Police will typically ask about this when taking the report. Stickers and custom accessories can help law enforcement and people you know identify your vehicle if they see it. In some cases thieves will use this approach to change the appearance. And most likely, they will take stickers off, and potentially change or cover up other identifying features. But it’s still not a lost cause as you are slowing them down and making them work harder. If your vehicle has enough identifying features, it may also act as a deterrent. Who wants to steal the hot-pink car covered in stickers? Pretty easy to spot out, right?
Take Pictures of Your Vehicle
Having good pictures of your vehicle can help police identify your vehicle easier. It can also be helpful having pictures to put on social media posts or posters to help people in the community identify your vehicle in the event it is stolen. This is a free and easy step you can take that could make a big difference in recovery efforts.
Have Your License Plate Number on Your Phone
Write down your license plate number somewhere easily accessible while on-the-go like in the notes on your phone or a business card in your wallet. Or, better yet, memorize it. Knowing your tag number immediately when calling police after a theft will get them looking for your car quicker.
Security Screws for License Plate
If you want to make a thief’s “job” even harder, and you already have a solid anti-theft plan in place, consider using security screws for your license plate. Security screws use uncommon screw bits to install/remove and are intended to keep your tag from being stolen. Using these can add to a thief’s frustration and potentially slow them down or cause them to drive your vehicle longer with a tag that identifies the vehicle as stolen. If you don’t expect to need to remove your tag again, you can use thread locker on the fine thread type screws used on Toyotas, etc. or you can through-bolt it on an American vehicle using the fine thread screws with an M6 nut and washer if the design of your car allows it. (See more about anti-theft license plate screws here.)
Locking Gas Caps
Locking gas caps are typically used for preventing fuel theft or stopping an angry ex from sabotaging your motor. But they can also be part of a comprehensive anti-theft plan for someone trying to take every possible measure. They’re never going to stop your vehicle from being stolen, but they have the potential to slow down thieves and possibly cause them to make a scene at the gas station. If a thief is going to drive your vehicle for a while, and yes, this does happen, they will eventually need to get fuel. If you can get a metal locking gas cap for your model, it will be more effective, the plastic ones can be easily defeated with a screwdriver. But either way you’re making it harder on them and increasing the chance, even if only by a small amount, that they will abandon the vehicle or be caught. Make sure to invest in methods of preventing your car from being stolen in the first place before worrying about your gas cap though.
Etched/Engraved Identifier Markings
So, these probably are not going to do you a whole lot of good. These markings are normally sold as a way for dealerships to make extra money off you. The police aren’t exactly going out looking for “special UV markings”, or hidden engraved VIN numbers, and it doesn’t help you much if your car is already at the chop shop getting parted out. But they can occasionally aid in identifying your vehicle and may from time to time act as a deterrent. So if you’re really going all-out on your theft prevention plan they could be worth looking into, but not until after you have equipped your vehicle with more effective devices.
Maintain Full Coverage Insurance
While this will not necessarily help recover your vehicle any faster, it is still worth mentioning that having full coverage insurance can not only help pay for the damage caused to the vehicle by the thieves, but also the potentially exorbitant towing and storage fees after police recover the vehicle. Which depending on the circumstances, can be anywhere from a few hundred dollars, to well over $1,000. It’s a lot better to not have to pay that out-of-pocket, and good to have this coverage in case your vehicle is not recovered or is completely destroyed by the low-lifes.
Layer 4: Vehicle Security at Home
It is most important to equip your vehicles with security measures that can be used both at home and on-the-go, and to use them at all times, even at home. But there are additional measures you can use at home to further reduce your vehicle’s risk of being stolen, such as:
Use Your Garage (If you Have one)
This is probably the best thing you can do to prevent car theft while at home. This is highly effective for multiple reasons. The first is that your car will be “out of sight, out of mind”, if thieves are driving through your neighborhood looking for a car to steal, what’s better than them not even seeing yours? Second, if they do know that you have a car they want, you’ve made it way harder for them to actually take than if it was just parked in the driveway. They have to get in, get the car started, get the garage door open, and leave undetected. Add in a home alarm system and utilize your other anti-theft devices while garaged an you’ve made it a near-impossible feat. Having your car in your garage (with the door closed, obviously), will also nearly eliminate the risk of theft by tow truck. Lastly, by garaging your vehicle, you have added risk to the crooks by making them commit breaking & entering before they can even take your vehicle.
Install a Driveway Sensor
Driveway sensors can be purchased for around 30-40 bucks on Amazon, and can provide you with an excellent early alert of a potential thief coming on to your property while you sleep. The sensors are typically solar powered, and send a signal to a speaker kept inside the house that will sound if motion is detected, giving you extra time to take action before your car is taken. (See more about driveway sensors here.)
Install Motion Sensing Cameras and Security Lights
These days, lights and cameras don’t do what they used to. Masked bandits, empowered by weak justice systems across the U.S are often unphased by motion-sensing lights and the presence of security cameras. That being said, they are far from useless. They can still be a deterrent for some, and will increase the chances of apprehension, should your car be stolen from home. Products such as Ring brand cameras can also provide you with an early alert when someone is on your property, and are a cost-effective way to improve your overall home security. (Read more about lights and cameras here.)
Consider Installing a Gate
This one is pretty self explanatory, adding a gate to your driveway will make it much harder for a thief to take off with your ride. Just make sure you have a fence or other means to ensure they cannot just drive around it. Even a simple chain-link fence and gate make you a much less desirable target, but heavier duty gates will be even more effective.
Block in High-Risk Cars with Lower Risk Cars
If you have multiple vehicles, and one is at a higher risk of theft than the others, one option is to park the lower risk vehicle closely behind the higher risk vehicle in a manner in which it could not be easily driven off. Say you have a Dodge Charger (commonly stolen) and a Tesla (rarely stolen), well it would probably be a good idea, (assuming you don’t have a garage) to park your Charger as far down your driveway (closest to the house) as possible, and park your Tesla about a foot behind it.
Use a Car Cover
Using a car cover adds another step a thief has to take to drive off with your car, and can potentially conceal the make/model of high theft vehicles. You can even buy a lock for your car cover that will act as a further deterrent and delay mechanism. You also will have the added benefit of your car staying cleaner and your paint will be better protected from the elements.
Use a Chain to Secure your Vehicle
This step is definitely a pain to use all the time, and is more commonly used for motorcycles, but it can definitely add another layer of deterrence. The bigger the chain you can use, the better. Make sure to use a quality, heavy duty padlock and secure the chain around something that cannot be moved, such a a large tree or an eye-hook anchored in concrete, and secure it around an axle, closed tow hook, or something else sturdy, metal, and hard to remove from the vehicle. Use a bright colored or shiny chain or steel cable to make it a good visual deterrent. When choosing a padlock, solid body locks are preferred and typically harder to pick than a cheaper laminated body padlock. I recommend American Lock brand padlocks. (Click here to read more about choosing locks and chains.)
But What If I Live in an Apartment/Condo?
Unfortunately, apartment complexes and condominiums are real hot-spots for vehicle theft and break-ins. Securing your vehicle in an apartment complex is much more difficult than a single-family residence and requires strategies tailored to shared living spaces where private garages or constant surveillance may not be available. When living in an apartment it is crucial to use absolutely as many of the vehicle anti-theft and deterrence devices as possible. Having a good 2-way alarm system can alert you of a theft attempt while your car is outside of immediate view or ear-shot. If theft is a serious problem in your area, wheel locks should be considered, especially when parked for extended periods. Car covers with locks can also add an extra layer for thieves. If your apartment faces your parking spot, it is possible you can use a Ring camera or similar, or a motion detecting light if allowed. Both options are available in battery powered models. You should always try parking in well-lit, high-traffic areas close to building entrances or security cameras, which can potentially deter thieves. Consider asking management to install better lighting or more surveillance cameras if currently inadequate. If your complex offers assigned or gated parking, use it—and request a spot near a camera if possible. Build rapport with neighbors and participate in any community watch programs to increase collective awareness. Being friendly and getting to know your neighbors will likely cause them to look out for you and your stuff. As always, avoid leaving spare keys or valuables in your car, and regularly check for any suspicious activity around the parking area to stay proactive. Whatever measures you decide to take, make sure they comply with the rules and regulations of your complex so you don’t get into trouble with them or get your vehicle taken by the shady tow companies commonly employed to patrol larger complexes.
