FBI: 24,700 portable navigation systems stolen in 2008

Posted: Feb 03, 2009
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The affordable prices on portable navigation systems have allowed most of the nation to fit one on their windshield. It seems like navigation systems have become a very popular gadget amongst drivers, but according to the FBI, they’ve also become popular amongst thieves.

The FBI found that 24,700 portable navigation systems were stolen in 2008 compared to 3,700 in 2006. That’s an outstanding 700 percent increase in just two years.

So as a tip – taking off the navigation along with the windshield mount and stuffing it in your glove box can save you a lot of hassle, time and money. Check out GPSMagazine.com’s list of tips to help keep your navigation safe.

Source: Ecommerce Journal (via Straightline)


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  • zermatt

    I have always thought of the potable GPS devices to be the same as the yellow “Baby On Board” signs of a few years ago: a status symbol of limited or no value.

    Let's be honest, the vast majority of people that have these affixed to their windshields and running are not actively using turn by turn directions. They have them powered up to prove they have one.

    Don't we pretty much know where we are going most of the time (to and from work, to the store, Mc Donalds, etc.) and only on rare occasions do we need help with directions?

    GPS device vanity is a an invitation to thieves.

  • Pat

    seriously…just pull them down and throw them in your glove box…10 seconds can save you a lot of trouble

  • Bonatti

    You must be kidding. A status symbol? It only shows that people couldn't or wouldn't buy the exorbitantly priced factory installed nav system.

    So in my mind, there's no status statement there at all! Furthermore, when you do drive in unfamiliar territory, these devices are extremely helpful.

  • zermatt

    And I bet you drive with your fog lights on when the weather is clear, too.

  • Bonatti

    Well actually I don't. I sorta figured you were one of those idiots.

  • Pat

    wow it's getting hot in here… it's just about navigation systems…relax

  • zermatt

    Pat,

    You are right.

    Who knew that those without a sense of direction would be so sensitive.

  • Kevin Wong

    buy a BMW so that the GPS is intergrated in the iDrive system and the robbers need to rip the whole car apart causing your car more damageXD

  • Kevin Wong

    buy a BMW so that the GPS is intergrated in the iDrive system and the robbers need to rip the whole car apart causing your car more damageXD