AAA warns drivers of rising threat of vehicle theft

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- AAA said total vehicle thefts nationwide have increased over the past 15 years, and some of that has to do with social media.

According to AAA, thieves of all ages are using the internet to invent and find new ways to steal cars.

Bill Purpura with AAA said there are two main types of thieves: joy riders and sophisticated thieves. Purpura said the more sophisticated type are using keyless entry hacks to relay attacks on key fobs, gaining them easy access into strangers' vehicles.

Alternatively, Purpura said many of the joy-rider thieves are using tutorial pictures and videos posted on social media that provide specific instructions on breaking into certain types of cars.

With the increase in vehicle theft, Purpura said insurance premiums are also on the uptick nationwide.

To reduce the risk of being a victim, Purpura said there are some simple things you can do. These include closing and locking all car doors and windows, keeping valuables out of sight and making sure to never leave your keys in the vehicle or leave the car running.

Another line of defense is a visual deterrence like a steering wheel lock, which may make thieves think twice about taking a car because it would be added work. Purpura said he has also seen thieves towing cars off the street.

“Another tip that AAA would provide is when you do park if you can turn your wheels very sharply one way or another and set your parking brake," Purpura said. "That will make it much more difficult for a thief to tow your car.”

If your car is stolen, Purpura said your first phone call needs to be to the police, and your second should be to your insurance company.