Technology needed to fight increasingly sophisticated vehicle theft in Ontario: report [Video]

More technology-based devices are needed to fight increasingly sophisticated car theft in Canada.

Almost half of Canadians say they’re more concerned than ever before about car theft, a new survey from financial services company Co-operators found.

The survey data also revealed that more than a third of Canadians (36 per cent) feel unsafe due to the persistent threat of vehicle theft and roughly two-thirds say that the lasting emotional distress and sense of violation (63 per cent) are key lasting impacts.

These impacts are matched by financial concerns. Nearly three-quarters of Canadians (72 per cent) expect a financial burden to replace or repair a car after a vehicle theft, and the same amount expect increases to their insurance premiums.

“Whether the cost is emotional or financial, Canadians simply cannot afford to face the ongoing crisis of vehicle theft,” said Tara Laidman, vice president, home and auto insurance at Co-operators.

Many Ontario residents have experienced vehicle theft. Nearly half (46 per …