It doesn’t take long for a car thief to break in—sometimes less than a minute. In Georgia, car break-ins are a growing concern, especially in metro areas like Atlanta, Savannah, and Augusta. And while locking your doors is a good first step, what you leave in plain sight can make your vehicle an easy target.
If you regularly leave these 7 items in your car, you might be putting more at risk than you think.
1. Electronics (Laptops, Tablets, Phones)
Even an empty laptop bag or a charging cable can attract a thief’s attention. Criminals often assume that where there’s a charger, there’s a device nearby. It only takes seconds to smash a window and grab what they want.
Tip: Take all devices with you or lock them in your trunk—out of sight, out of mind.
2. Wallets and Purses
This one should be obvious, but it still happens every day. Leaving a wallet, purse, or even a backpack in plain view is like waving a flag that says, “Easy cash inside!”
Tip: If you absolutely must leave a bag in the car, make sure it’s empty and hidden well before you park—not once you’re already in the lot.
3. Guns and Ammunition
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Georgia has high rates of firearm ownership, and unfortunately, many guns are stolen from unattended vehicles. Not only is this dangerous, but it can also lead to legal trouble if your weapon ends up in the wrong hands.
Tip: Always take firearms with you. If you can’t, store them securely in a locked safe designed for vehicle use.
4. Cash and Loose Change
Even small amounts of money can motivate a break-in. Thieves don’t care if it’s only $5 in the cup holder—if they see it, they may go for it.
Tip: Keep your car clean and clutter-free. A spotless interior gives potential thieves nothing to get excited about.
5. Mail and Documents with Personal Info
Bank statements, insurance cards, or anything with your address or Social Security number are gold for identity thieves. A stolen document can lead to far more damage than a broken window.
Tip: Never leave paperwork or mail in your car—especially anything with sensitive information.
6. Shopping Bags and Packages
After a day at the mall or running errands, it’s tempting to leave your purchases in the backseat. But thieves know the signs—and they’re often watching parking lots for shoppers making multiple stops.
Tip: Put items in the trunk before you reach your next destination, not after you park.
7. Spare Keys
It might seem smart to stash a spare key in your vehicle for emergencies, but it’s one of the first things a thief looks for after breaking in. Worse yet, they might come back later and steal the whole car.
Tip: Keep spare keys at home or in a secure location—not in your glove box.
Car theft in Georgia isn’t just about stolen vehicles—many times, it’s about what’s inside. Thieves look for easy wins, and even small items can make your car a target. The best way to protect yourself? Keep your car locked, empty, and boring. If a thief peeks inside and sees nothing worth the risk, they’ll likely move on.
Remember: When in doubt, take it with you. A few extra steps now can save you a lot of time, money, and stress later.
