In a big city, cars and bicycles are a constant target for thieves. A little effort greatly reduces the risk.

Car

  • Do not leave things in view. Bags, wallets, laptops and even charging cables provoke window smashing.
  • Park in lit places and under surveillance cameras.
  • Lock the windows and doors, even if you leave for a short time.
  • Do not leave keys and documents in the car.
  • Anti-theft systems. An alarm, mechanical locks and GPS trackers make theft harder.

Bicycle

  1. Buy a quality lock: a U-lock or a hardened chain, not a thin cable.
  2. Lock the frame and the wheel to something immovable.
  3. Do not leave a bicycle overnight in the stairwell without a lock.
  4. Record the serial number and photograph the bicycle. It will help the police.
  5. Remove parts that are easy to steal: the saddle, lights.

If it was stolen

Call 102 immediately, inform the police and file a report. Add photos, the frame number or VIN, and the place and time. Check listings on online marketplaces: thieves often try to sell stolen goods quickly.

Insurance can compensate losses but does not replace caution.