Over the past decade, the UK has experienced a significant surge in van theft, with thousands of these highly sought-after vehicles stolen annually. But what’s causing this sudden rise in thefts, and who is most at risk of having their vehicle taken?
To help answer this question, we’ve compiled a list of the latest van theft statistics from across the country to give you an insight into who and where are most affected.
So if you own or operate a commercial vehicle in the UK, it pays to be informed about what could be one of your most considerable losses!
Read on to discover more about reducing your chances of becoming a victim of crime and how worrying things look for those whose livelihoods depend on keeping their vehicles safe.
The Prevalence Of Van Theft In The UK
Van theft has become a prevalent issue in the United Kingdom, affecting individuals and businesses nationwide. The rise in van theft incidents has raised concerns about the security of vehicles and their impact on people’s lives.
Recent statistics indicate a significant increase in reported cases of van theft, highlighting the urgency to address this problem.
The prevalence of van theft is not limited to specific regions, as thieves target vans in urban areas, suburban neighbourhoods, and even rural regions.
It is crucial to understand the extent of this issue and take appropriate measures to prevent and combat van theft in the UK.

Recent Van Theft Statistics
Recent van theft statistics in the United Kingdom reveal a concerning incident rise. According to available data, there has been a significant increase in reported cases of van theft in recent years.
These statistics indicate that van theft has become a prevalent problem affecting individuals and businesses nationwide. The rise in theft incidents has raised concerns about the security of vans and the need for effective preventive measures.
It is crucial to stay updated with these statistics and work towards implementing strategies to mitigate van theft and protect the interests of van owners and operators.
The percentage of van theft increases in the UK may vary based on the specific period and available data. However, recent statistics indicate a significant rise in reported cases of van theft compared to previous years.
This increase highlights the alarming nature of the issue and the need for immediate attention and preventive measures.
Areas of High Van Theft Rates
Certain areas in the UK have experienced higher van theft rates than others. These regions include major cities such as London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Leeds, where the density of population and commercial activities make vans attractive targets for thieves.
The bustling nature of these cities provides ample opportunities for criminals to carry out thefts quickly and escape unnoticed. However, it’s important to note that van theft is not limited to urban areas alone.
Thieves also target vans in suburban neighbourhoods and rural regions, taking advantage of less crowded areas and potential vulnerabilities.
Van owners in these high-risk areas should exercise extra caution and take necessary security measures to protect their vehicles from theft.

Standard Techniques Used by Thieves
Thieves employ various standard techniques when it comes to van theft. One common method involves exploiting keyless entry vulnerabilities in modern vans. By intercepting the signal between the key fob and the vehicle, criminals can gain unauthorised access and start the van without physical keys.
This technique, known as relay attacks, has become increasingly prevalent as keyless entry systems have become more widespread. Another technique used by thieves is breaking into vans by forcefully gaining access.
They may target vans parked in unsecured locations or use tools to break windows, bypass locks, or turn off alarms. These standard techniques highlight the importance of implementing robust security measures to protect vans from theft, including physical security features, tracking systems, and immobilisers.
Measures to Prevent Van Theft
One effective measure to prevent van theft is the installation of Bear Locks. Bear Lock is a specialised mechanical immobiliser designed to enhance the security of vans and deter thieves.
This system works by immobilising the steering wheel or gear lever, making it extremely difficult for unauthorised individuals to operate the vehicle. The Bear Lock is a robust and reliable solution that provides additional protection against theft, particularly in keyless entry vulnerability cases.
With Bear Lock installed, van owners can have peace of mind knowing that their vehicles are more secure and less likely to be targeted by thieves. Investing in Bear Locks is a proactive step towards safeguarding valuable assets and reducing the risk of van theft.

Contact Theft Stop For Van Security Protection Measures!
According to official data from the Government, Van theft incidents in the UK have experienced a sharp rise since 2018. It is estimated that more than 21,000 vans are stolen yearly, most of which have yet to be recovered.
Though lawmakers are working tirelessly to combat this issue, much work still needs to be done for law enforcement to have sufficient measures to bring significant change. Individuals can contribute to this cause by investing in advanced security measures such as alarms, immobilisers, and tracking systems.
Organisations such as Theft Stop also provide various preventative solutions that allow you to protect your vehicle from criminals and safeguard the safety of those around you.
For more information about van theft prevention initiatives and solutions, contact Theft Stop today!