Car Gadgets a Juicy Choice for Thieves

According to the FBI, 2008 saw the theft of 24,700 personal navigation devices — a 700% increase from 2006. Obviously, that percentage sounds large, but it’s only because so many drivers have been purchasing aftermarket nav devices.

Similarly, Apple’s iPod is a tempting choice for those disreputable elements: 2008 saw 17,000 units unwillingly change ownership. The only bright spot is that thieves are becoming less interested in car stereos, as 14,000 fewer were stolen in 2008 than in 2006.

The lesson here is that expensive electronics not built into the car make for tempting opportunities for small-time crooks. Remove them when you leave your car.

NaviGONE: Portable GPS System Theft Reportedly up 700% (Autoblog)