Digital cameras top thieves' hit list

Stephen Withers
Monday, 04 January 2010 09:06

Your IT - Home IT

A major insurer says electronic gadgets including cameras and MP3 players have displaced jewellery as the items most commonly stolen.

"In the past, thieves' number one priority has been on jewellery, but the digital age has created a lucrative alternative because these items are popular and highly portable," said Paul Northey, general manager at RACV Insurance.

An analysis of claims made against the company's policies during the 2008/09 financial year revealed that the most commonly stolen items were digital cameras, MP3 players and notebook computers.

"These items are easy to pick up, and can even be put into a backpack, allowing a thief to make a quick getaway," said Northey.

The remaining items in the top eight were jewellery, cash, watches, sunglasses and glasses, and televisions.

Northey also reported an increase in the number of claims for game consoles such as the Wii and PlayStation 3.