Leaving certain items in your car can make it an easy target for theft. Whether you’re running errands or parking overnight, it’s important to know what attracts thieves. In this article, we’ll highlight 15 common items you should never leave in your car if you want to keep it safe.
Contents
Wallets and Purses
Wallets and purses often contain cash, credit cards, and personal identification, making them prime targets for thieves. The loss of these items can lead to financial loss and identity theft. Additionally, purses may hold other valuables like keys and small electronics.
Laptops and Tablets
These high-value electronics are not only expensive but also contain sensitive personal and professional data. Thieves can easily resell laptops and tablets, making them attractive targets when left visible in cars.
Smartphones
Smartphones are highly sought after on the black market due to their value and the personal data they store. A stolen smartphone can lead to identity theft and unauthorized access to personal accounts.
GPS Devices
GPS devices are easy to steal and resell. Many older models can be quickly detached from their mounts, making them convenient targets for quick theft.
Cameras
Cameras, especially DSLRs and those with high-quality lenses, are expensive and attractive to thieves. They are easy to spot and can be quickly resold, making them a risk when left in a car.
Backpacks and Bags
Backpacks and bags often contain valuable items such as electronics, documents, and personal belongings. Thieves target them because they are easy to grab and may hold items of significant value.
Sunglasses
Designer sunglasses can be worth a lot of money. Thieves can quickly spot and snatch them, knowing they can be easily resold or pawned for a good price.
Keys
Leaving keys, especially house keys, in your car can lead to further theft. If a thief gains access to your keys, they may also find a way to your home, increasing the risk of burglary.
Cash and Loose Change
Any visible money, even small amounts of loose change, can attract thieves. Cash is easy to take and spend, making it a simple yet tempting target.
Jewelry
High-value items like jewelry are easy to pawn and sell. They are small, portable, and often overlooked until it’s too late, making them an attractive target for thieves.
Important Documents
Documents such as passports, IDs, and sensitive papers can lead to identity theft if stolen. These items hold personal information that can be exploited for fraudulent activities.
Credit and Debit Cards
These can be used for fraudulent activities if stolen. Thieves can quickly rack up charges or use the cards for unauthorized purchases, leading to financial loss.
Shopping Bags
Shopping bags might contain new and valuable items. Thieves target these because they assume the bags hold recent purchases, which can be easily stolen and resold.
Prescription Medications
Prescription medications can be misused or sold. Leaving them in your car poses a risk not only of theft but also of contributing to drug misuse.
Mail contains personal information that can be exploited by thieves. Bills, bank statements, and other correspondence can be used to steal your identity.
This article originally appeared in MyCarMakesNoise.
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