It's no secret that the UK has been experiencing a rise in car theft in recent years. What may be less well-known, however, is the reason behind this increase. Thieves are increasingly stealing number plates to avoid being caught on CCTV or ANPR, making it more difficult for the police to track down stolen cars. This problem is costing taxpayers millions of pounds each year, and the police are asking for the public's help in solving it. 

The reason behind the increase  

The reason behind the increase in car theft in the UK is not yet clear, but there are several possible explanations. One possibility is that thieves are getting smarter and more sophisticated and are thus finding new ways to evade detection. Another possibility is that the police are struggling to keep up with the latest trends in crime, and as a result, car thefts are going undetected. The most likely explanation, however, is that the economic recession has caused people to become increasingly desperate, and they are turning to crime as a way of making ends meet. Whatever the reason may be, it's clear that something needs to be done about this problem before it gets any worse. According to national data compiled by insurers Direct Line, the most common car part said to be stolen is the number plate, with last year reaching a huge 53,400 stolen.

What can be done to prevent car theft?  

There are several things that can be done to prevent car theft. One of the most important things is to make sure that your car is properly secured. This means parking in a well-lit and secure area, using a steering lock, and possibly even installing an alarm system. It's also important to be vigilant when leaving your car unattended, and to never leave valuables in plain sight. If you do have valuables in your car, it's best to keep them out of sight in a locked glove compartment or trunk. Finally, if you're worried about your car being stolen, you can always park it in a garage or on a driveway. 

How to catch a thief  

If your car does happen to get stolen, there are a few things you can do to try and catch the thief. One of the most important things is to report the theft to the police as soon as possible. This will give them a better chance of tracking down the thief and recovering your car. It's also important to provide the police with as much information about your car as possible, such as the make, model, and license plate number. If you have any CCTV footage of the theft, or if you know of any witnesses who saw what happened, this can also be helpful. Finally, if you have comprehensive insurance, you should contact your insurer immediately to start the claims process. 

The cost of car theft to taxpayers  

Car theft is a serious problem that costs taxpayers millions of pounds each year. This is because the police have to spend time and resources investigating thefts, and insurance companies have to pay out claims for stolen cars. In addition, car owners who have had their cars stolen often have to pay for repairs or replacements, and they may also suffer from the loss of personal belongings. All of this adds up to a significant financial burden on society, and it's one that we need to work together to try and reduce. 

By following these simple tips, you can help make sure that your car is safe from thieves, and you can help the police to catch those responsible for car theft. Together, we can make a difference and reduce the number of cars stolen in the UK each year.