6 Things People Store in Their Cars That Criminals Look For

Most of us think that if we lock our car, our personal belongings are safe. But nothing is further from the truth. If you make a habit of leaving items in your car, you are exposing yourself to potential break-ins. Even small items like documents are dangerous to leave in your vehicle. Here are 6 things people commonly store in their cars that attract criminals.

1. Electronics (Laptops, Tablets, Phones)

Electronics are especially risky to leave in your car. These are high-value and easy to sell. Even power cords or mounts can signal that something worth stealing is hidden nearby. You shouldn’t even leave a computer bag in your car, even if it’s empty.

2. Purses and Wallets

Purses and wallets often contain cash, cards, ID, and other valuables. Even an empty bag may tempt a thief who doesn’t know it’s empty. Don’t leave your wallet in your glove compartment either. A thief may be watching your movements and know it’s in there.

3. Cash and Loose Change

Coins in a cup holder or bills in the console are quick grabs for someone looking for easy money. It’s an open invitation to break into your car. Even small amounts of money aren’t safe to leave in your car. Thieves often look for fast, low-risk opportunities, and visible cash makes your vehicle a target.

4. Guns or Weapons

Firearms left in glove compartments or under seats are not only valuable but also dangerous in the wrong hands. As a gun owner, you are responsible for securing your firearms. Leaving it in a car is careless and asking for trouble. Plus, you could get in trouble with the law for not properly securing your gun. Around 26 states have some kind of gun storage laws to protect children from harm.

5. Personal Documents

Items like mail, registration papers, or insurance cards can lead to identity theft or help a thief impersonate you. It may seem harmless, but these items are all a thief needs for identity theft. A stolen registration can even help someone steal your car more easily. Always keep sensitive paperwork out of sight, or better yet, out of your vehicle entirely.

6. Shopping Bags or Luggage

Bags from a mall or suitcase in the back seat suggest recent purchases or valuables inside, making your car a target. If you’re packing for a trip, load luggage into your trunk and cover it. Any bags should be out of sight. If not, a thief may smash your windows. Even empty bags can attract attention, as thieves won’t know what’s inside until they break in.

Deterring Criminals from Breaking into Your Car

Always remove valuables or keep them out of sight, lock your doors, and park in well-lit areas to reduce risk. If you have a garage, parking there overnight is much safer. When protecting your car, use common sense and always be aware of your surroundings, as well as what you leave in your car. A car alarm system can only do so much to deter thieves.

Read More

Philip Morris Stock Surges on ZYN Boom: Is Now the Time to Invest?

8 Daily Habits That Signal to Thieves You’re Not Home