July Is Vehicle Theft Prevention Month In New York State

Among the many things the month of July is known for, you may not know that July is also Vehicle Theft Prevention Month in New York State.

Falling Victim To Vehicle Theft Statewide and Nationally

Today, July 10, 2026, government officials are reminding New Yorkers to take steps to protect their vehicles from theft. According to the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, during the first six months of 2026, 140 stolen vehicles worth $4.3 million have been recovered in the Empire State, in addition to recovering eight stolen auto parts with a value of nearly $13,000.

Read More: Free Parking In Binghamton Ramps On Select Saturdays

Nationwide, over 650,000 motorists fall victim to car theft every year, with an eye-opening statistic of a vehicle being stolen every 48 seconds, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

A car is vitally important to millions of New Yorkers, and to find your car missing is immensely stressful and costly. Our investigators work hard to recover stolen automobiles and to help set things right for victims of these crimes. You too can take steps to protect your investment in your vehicle. - New York State DMV Acting Commissioner Christian Jackstadt

 

Ways To Help Prevent Vehicle Theft

So, what are things you can do to help prevent your vehicle(s) from being stolen? Here are some tips from the NYS DMV:

• When you park, close and lock all windows and doors.
• Do not leave your key fob in the vehicle.
• Park in well-lit areas if possible.
• Do not leave valuables in your vehicle, especially if they are visible.

How To Spot A Stolen Vehicle For Sale

Eyeing a vehicle for sale? Be sure you are not unintentionally buying a stolen vehicle. Here are some things to keep in mind before handing over that hard-earned cash, according to the NYS DMV:

• Obtain an independent vehicle inspection to examine the Vehicle Identification Number found on the vehicle.
• Get a Vehicle History Report via the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System or other available vehicle information resources.
• Look for odometer discrepancies.
• Visit the US Department of Justice’s National Motor Vehicle Title Information System website for accurate information about a vehicle’s title, odometer data, and certain damage history. The report costs $4.
• Could the vehicle be a flood vehicle? Visit the National Insurance Crime Bureau website to access a free database that includes flood damage and other information
• Be cautious about buying a vehicle locally with out-of-state titles or a car being sold with a New York State title that has out-of-state inspection stickers, plates, or temporary paper plates.

Visit the Federal Trade Commission website for more used car buying tips.

Finally, the NYS DMV notes that if, unfortunately, your vehicle is stolen, report it to local police and your auto insurance company as soon as possible. The theft will be noted on your vehicle title record to help prevent someone from selling the vehicle or applying for a title.

For more details on keeping your vehicle safe, visit the website of New York State Governor Kathy Hochul.

Get our free mobile app