Farmers Urged to Enhance Security Amid Surge in GPS Thefts

Farmers across the UK are being alerted to a recent surge in Global Positioning System (GPS) thefts. Organised criminals have targeted farms in Lincolnshire, Essex, Newport, North Yorkshire, and Thames Valley, seeking to steal these valuable systems, according to the National Rural Crime Unit (NRCU).

GPS systems, crucial for precision farming, are highly coveted for their value and portability.

NRCU advises farmers to take preventive measures, such as removing GPS units from machinery when not in use, securely storing them, parking vehicles out of sight, and marking equipment with identifying information to deter theft and make resale difficult.

Superintendent Andrew Huddleston of the NRCU emphasised the persistence of organised crime groups in rural areas and urged farmers to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity to the police. Recent arrests have been made, but the threat remains significant. Collaboration among police forces nationwide aims to combat this issue and protect the farming industry.

Efforts are underway with manufacturers and the government to improve security measures and introduce new legislation to reduce machinery and GPS theft. An announcement on this is expected later this year.

Follow these GPS security tips:

• Activate PIN security on GPS devices.
• Mark units with your postcode.
• Store tractors and combines with GPS systems out of sight.
• Remove and securely store GPS units when not in use.
• Record and photograph serial numbers.
• Verify serial numbers of second-hand equipment before purchasing.

Additional security measures include installing simple alarm systems in machinery cabs, investing in yard CCTV and sensor alarms, and positioning vulnerable machinery where it is more likely to be noticed if tampered with.

For further advice, the Northamptonshire Police Rural Crime Team is available to visit farms and offer personalized crime prevention guidance.