Protect your GPS system from thieves

Portable Global Positioning Systems are among the fastest selling car accessories today. They also happen to make you a target. GPS theft continues to rise.

Because these often-expensive portable devices are impossible to trace, they've become popular among thieves, who can easily sell them on the street. GPS devices have been stolen from ambulances and FBI cars, so don't think for a minute yours is safe.

Here are a few tips that can help keep your GPS in your possession,

Hide the goods
Most reported thefts are from people who left their GPS mount and system in plain sight, so it's important to hide both pieces in your trunk or glove compartment when you get out of the car. You might also want to keep other gadgets, like iPods, out of sight to keep thieves at bay.

Wipe down the windshield
GPS devices use suction cups that leave big rings on the windshield. Even if you hide your system, you run the risk of becoming a target unless you wipe off the telltale suction marks. Pack a few wet towelettes, and when the ring becomes noticeable, wipe down your windshield. 

Alternatively, mount the device on your dashboard to keep it out of direct sight and to avoid the windshield rings.

Take it with you
If you value your GPS so much, take it with you when you leave the car. It may be hugely inconvenient, but you at least get to keep your system-even if thieves break in. 

Note your serial number...
...And keep it handy, in case your GPS does get stolen. Many times the police are able to recover stolen items, so you'll need some sort of proof that you're the owner. You might want to take a photo, too, for reference.

Mountable GPS systems are especially risky, because they're easy to spot when you don't take them down. The best thing you can do to secure your system is to buy one that's in-dash with a retractable screen.