LoJack: Tis the season for grand theft auto

"Two forces - the recession and the holidays - are coming together to make the next several weeks the perfect storm for auto theft," said LoJack Corp., which sells stolen-vehicle recovery systems.

According to the Westwood-based company, auto theft rises during tough economic times. Slumping demand and sales for new cars fuel a black market for used cars and car parts as many strapped consumers look to squeeze another 10,000 miles out of their old clunker.

Mix in the holidays, which "provide an added incentive for theft," and conditions arise that make a spike in auto theft likely, LoJack said.

The very market forces that help thieves can also hurt LoJack. Last month, the company reported that its third-quarter revenues fell 4 percent as new car sales fell in the United States.

In any case, consumers should take extra precautions over the next few weeks to safeguard their rides, LoJack advises.

Don't hide a spare key in your vehicle, suggests the company, and park in well lit areas. To read LoJack's press release, which includes additional tips, please click here.

"Today's clever thieves are particularly vigilant for thefts of opportunity especially around the holidays," Patrick Clancy, LoJack's vice president of law enforcement, said in a statement. "One common sense tip for consumers is never to leave your packages in plain view inside a parked car. Thieves know just how and when to strike and that is when your vehicle is most vulnerable."
(By Chris Reidy, Globe staff)