Secure your sat-nav

Thursday, February 16, 2006

Theft risk to portable satellite-navigation systems
Ford dealers offer kit to mark systems with code
Stolen units can then be traced to original owner

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Portable satellite-navigation devices can be security marked and registered at Ford dealerships, in a move which could reduce theft.

Ford dealerships are selling a DIY kit costing £10 that marks satellite-navigation devices with a unique code. This code is also stored in a database, along with the owner's details.

This should make it harder for thieves to sell on stolen satellite-navigation devices, says Ford, since it is easy to trace the unit to its original owner.

Rod Jarman, spokesman for the Metropolitan Police said: 'Theft of satellite-navigation systems from vehicles is a major issue, and any idea which will combat the problem is welcome.'