A new “POP. LOCK. STOP” ad campaign has been launched to remind motorists of simple steps they can take to prevent car theft as offenders “become more brazen”, sneaking into homes via unlocked doors or windows to steal keys left in accessible spots.

The new social media messaging campaign highlights that seven in 10 cars are stolen this way, the National Motor Vehicle Theft Reduction Council (NMVTRC) says.

It wants drivers to POP keys out of sight and LOCK all doors and windows to STOP sneak theft.

NMVTRC CEO Geoff Hughes said there is clear evidence of a shift in the behaviour of offenders, with more entering homes to steal car keys.

“The good news is sneak thefts are preventable,” he said.