The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) recently released its annual Hot Wheels report, which highlights the most stolen vehicles in the United States. For the second year in a row, the Ford full size pick-up truck was the automobile that bandits targeted the most in 2020. The slideshow above illustrates 2020's top 10 most stolen vehicles, according to the NICB. "Auto thefts saw a dramatic increase in 2020 versus 2019," NICB President and CEO David Glawe said in a press release. He attributed the car-theft uptick to the pandemic, an economic downturn, law enforcement realignment, depleted social and schooling programs and vehicle-owner complacency.

Stop theft before it starts

The NICB recommends drivers use the following four layers of protection to safeguard against vehicle theft: Use common Sense. The common-sense approach to protection is the easiest and most cost-effective way to thwart would-be thieves. Drivers should always:

• Remove your keys from the ignition
• Lock your doors/close your windows
• Park in a well-lit area

Install a warning device. The second layer of protection is a visible or audible device which alerts thieves that your vehicle is protected. Popular devices include:

• Audible alarms
• Steering column collars
• Steering wheel/brake pedal lock
• Brake locks
• Wheel locks
• Theft deterrent decals
• Identification markers in or on vehicle
• VIN etching
• Micro dot marking

Install an immobilizing device. The third layer of protection is a device which prevents thieves from bypassing your ignition and hot-wiring the vehicle. Some electronic devices have computer chips in ignition keys. Other devices inhibit the flow of electricity or fuel to the engine until a hidden switch or button is activated. Some examples are:

• Smart keys
• Fuse cut-offs
• Kill switches
• Starter, ignition, and fuel pump disablers
• Wireless ignition authentication

Use a tracking device. The final layer of protection is a tracking device which emits a signal to police or a monitoring station when the vehicle is stolen. Tracking devices are very effective in helping authorities recover stolen vehicles. "For many people, a car is the second largest investment they will ever make behind a home," Glawe said. "No matter what kind of vehicle you have, take steps to protect your investment — lock your car and take your keys." See also:

• Worst states for drivers after an automobile crash or theft
• These are the 20 most stolen vehicles in 2019
• The most expensive states for car owners