5 Steps Help Keep Your Vehicle Safe from High-Tech Auto Pirates

As cars become more computerized and connected to the Internet, criminals are less likely to break in than they are to hack in by using a laptop. In the end, protecting yourself and your car comes down to common sense and to making your vehicle as unappealing as possible to auto pirates.

No car is theft-proof, but these five steps will slow down thieves attempting to break or hack in to your vehicle:

1. Cover the basics. Lock your car, park in well-lit or public areas and never leave another car key anywhere in the vehicle.

2. Consider etching your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on windows and engine parts so authorities can ID a car if it’s stolen.

3. Use multiple warning devices, such as car alarms, steering wheel locks and gear-shift locks.

4. Install GPS and immobilization devices, this includes smart keys and kill switches.

5. Never leave documents, purses or wallets in the car. The trunk isn’t a safe place either—thieves always check here.