Automakers caught in 'cat-and-mouse game' with car thieves as auto thefts surge

Carmakers say they're caught in a game of cat-and-mouse with criminals as auto thefts surge.

Carmakers say they're caught in a game of cat-and-mouse with criminals as auto thefts surge.

Though they're taking steps to improve security features, the companies say every update is eventually countered by new efforts from bad actors.

Honda Canada is one of the automakers at the centre of the storm, as its CR-V is among the most frequently stolen models, according to a November report from insurance fraud prevention group Equite Association.

Other Honda models popular with thieves include the Accord and Civic, which both made the association's top-10 list of most frequently stolen vehicles.

Honda Canada knows theft is a significant problem and is continually improving its theft recovery technology, company spokesman John Bordignon said in an email.

“(It) remains a cat-and-mouse game impacting all vehicle brands and models, with thieves and criminal syndicates consistently attempting to defeat ... theft deterrent systems,” Bordignon said.

The federal government's auto-theft summit on Thursday will bring together politicians, police, border agents and auto industry leaders to better co-ordinate and prevent thefts.