AP
The model has been a common target across the country, and features in the list of top-15 stolen cars according to DVLA data.

Hounslow Police have issued a warning to drivers with a Fiat 500 Abarth to be extra cautious, after a rise in targeted thefts. They are urging owners to consider precautions such as steering locks and parking in a garage.

“It doesn’t have keyless entry, so isn’t prone to relay theft, but these days crooks can easily extract the immobiliser security codes from a car’s standardised diagnostic socket – known as the OBD socket,” says Tim Shallcross from road safety charity I Am Road Smart.

“The OBD socket is something fitted by law to make life easier for your garage but which presents a vulnerable back door into the car’s security for those in the know.”

How to keep your care safe

Met Police has put out a guide for car owners to follow in order to stay safe.

They suggest these measures:

  • Locking your vehicle – even when filling up or parked on your drive. Also check you haven’t left any windows or the sunroof open. Criminal gangs look for vehicles where the wing mirrors are still out, because it is clear to them that the vehicle has been left unlocked.
  • Keep the keys safe- out of view when at home, and away from your front door. It’s not uncommon for car keys to be stolen from inside your home by thieves fishing for them with a stick and hook through the letterbox.
  • Be aware of carjackers- In traffic, drive with the doors locked and when queuing leave enough space in front of your vehicle to enable you to get out of a tight spot. If your vehicle is bumped from behind, wait to pull over – somewhere safe and preferably where there are people.
  • If someone threatens you, it’s better to hand over the keys to the vehicle than become a victim of assault. Then call 999 as soon as possible, and ask for the police.
  • Park responsibly- It’s always advisable to avoid parking in dark and secluded areas.
  • Watch for illegal tow trucks- Thieves often attempt to lift vehicles from the street, literally. So, if you see a towaway crew acting suspiciously – especially if their vehicle isn’t branded or if they’re not in uniform –report it immediately.
  • Fit good in-car security locks- Bear in mind that built-in steering locks aren’t necessarily thief-proof. Many can be forced and broken. Fitting a Sold Secure steering wheel, gear lever or clutch pedal security device can give your vehicle added protection.
  • Double-check electronic locking – electronic devices can be used to jam the electronic signal from your key fob to lock your vehicle. Always manually check your vehicle has locked before walking away.
  • Before owning, check for cloning- When buying a vehicle, always check the DVLA V5 document and make sure the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the vehicle is the same as on the document.

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