Let's brainstorm on how we can make a GPS theft proof.
Tue, 11/13/2007 - 4:35pm
17 years
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I'm a victum of GPS theft. I've even started a web site on this problem. My Garmin has a pin code. I know that if I keep it in the open, someone will steal it; Even though it's useless when they do.
I HATE having to keep taking the GPS down when I park. What could be done to keep thieves from stealing these? Let's brainstorm. Would be nice to lock it to the dash without it looking stupid.
Maybe it's time that all GPS manufacturers use a key system.
Idea's?
I'm a victum of GPS theft. I've even started a web site on this problem. My Garmin has a pin code. I know that if I keep it in the open, someone will steal it; Even though it's useless when they do.
I HATE having to keep taking the GPS down when I park. What could be done to keep thieves from stealing these? Let's brainstorm. Would be nice to lock it to the dash without it looking stupid.
Maybe it's time that all GPS manufacturers use a key system.
Sorry to hear about it. But a key system is easier to bypass than the Garmin lock. Even though 9,999 tries and he might have it. Also most owners will set their location in front of their house, and if I copy the plate number down there is a good chance I could get your address. A hungry pit bull might help. But taking it with you is the best defense against theft.
Rodney.. oditius.htc@gmail.com BMW Zumo 550 HTC Touch Pro - Garmin XT
Theft
There is not a lot one can do to prevent the theft other than taking the GPS with them. Even if you lock it into the car they will still break the windows to steel it. The may even do more damage trying to break the cable.
Putting a password in the unit is great. If everyone did it thieves would know the unit will be useless to them if they took it. If the unit was reported to the manufacture as stolen. When it was sent in to unlock it the owner would get the unit back.
On idea is if the unit's serial number is stored in memory you can report is stolen to the manufacture and when they connect it to the manufactures website, like tomtom home, the manufacture can trace the IP address of the pc it is connected to and perhaps using the ISP track the thief.
Paul Team Dougherty
I always take my GPSr with
I always take my GPSr with me. I have a nice belt holster and I stick it in there whenever I leave the car. If I am somewhere for a long time, I unmount my mount as well.
Charley - Nuvi 350 - Bel STI Driver - Cobra 29 w/ wilson 1000 - AIM: asianfire -
Plate number to address?
To my knowledge, there isn't a way to locate someone from their plate number. unfortunately, I am at a dissadvantage. my plate is my ham radio call sign and if someone goes to qrz.com, they can put in my call sign and get my address. Thanks for the warning, I didn't think of that. Also, I have a 200' driveway, they would have to drive up to my house to unlock the GPS.
Trunk Monkey
Have you considered a trunk monkey?
http://www.trunkmonkeyad.com/4qt.htm
Law Enforcement
Hmmm give a cop your plate and he can tell you where you live. Do you really think in the "Information Age society" that cannot also be done by someone who really knows computers? Never trust anyone. So make your trusted site you mom's house, work or your church, anywhere but in front of your house.
http://burbridgepi.com/html/license_plate_search_lookup.html
Rodney.. oditius.htc@gmail.com BMW Zumo 550 HTC Touch Pro - Garmin XT
This problem reminds me of
This problem reminds me of the days of CB radio.It was just a manner of time before someone got yours.I made me a metal box and attached at under the dash with the best stainless lock I could get on the door and never had one stolen.No reason that you could not do the same with a GPS unit but you would have to have the external antenna.Like Asianfire I take down take everything but I put it in a camera bag so if any one is looking they will be aware that I have it with me.It is a shamless world we live in.
Charlie. Nuvi 265 WT and Nuvi 2597 LMT. MapFactor Navigator - Offline Maps & GPS.
steal it
If I'm within sight of my car, I'll leave it in (and leave it on). If I'm out of the car, out of sight of it, I take it off the holder and take it with me. If I'm in a strange place, I also take the holder off the windshield, preferably before I park, so no one sees me do it.
John - with a Garmin 650 and a 750