Auto Theft Prevention

The DenverTrack program works with the vehicles’ GPS systems to track stolen vehicles in real time. The program requires vehicle owners to preauthorize Denver Police access to the manufacturer's GPS service (e.g., OnStar, etc.) in the unfortunate event that their vehicle is stolen. If the vehicle is stolen, when the vehicle owner calls police to report the theft, DPD can then track the vehicle in real time with the goal of locating and returning the vehicle to the owner and arresting the suspect.

Participants will be able to receive a one of the above DenverTrack stickers for placement on their vehicle. The sticker is a visible deterrent that alerts potential thieves that the vehicle has GPS and will be tracked if stolen.

How does the DenverTrack program work?

The vehicle owner preauthorizes the Denver Police Department (DPD) access to their vehicle’s GPS in the unfortunate event that their vehicle is stolen. Once the preauthorization is completed online:

• The owner calls 911 to report the vehicle stolen
• The owner states that they have filled out the authorization form and gives verbal confirmation that DPD can access the vehicle’s GPS information
• DPD is able to track the car in real time and respond to its location with the goal of quickly returning the vehicle to its owner and arresting the thief.

Is there a cost to register?

There is no cost to register, but there may be a fee from your vehicle's manufacturer or app. Please verify with them.

Will DPD be able to track my car’s GPS if I don’t sign up for the DenverTrack program?

Without express written consent from the vehicle’s owner, some car companies will not share real time information with law enforcement without a subpoena, which is often takes several business days. This is why it is essential vehicle owners fill out the authorization form prior to their vehicle being stolen.

If information is available about the location of a stolen vehicle, regardless if the vehicle is registered with DenverTrack, the Denver Police Department will make good faith efforts to recover the vehicle. This good faith effort is based upon the totality of the information available and specific situation (i.e., location, available staffing, legal authority, etc.).

Will DPD be able to always track my car if I register?

Absolutely not. This program has systems in place to only allow tracking to be done when the vehicle owner reports the car stolen and has preauthorized the tracking. The caller must provide information proving it is their vehicle they are reporting as stolen. DPD then works with the GPS company to track the vehicle.

How do I withdrawal my authorization or can I withdraw it at any time?

Yes, the vehicle owner can email denvertrack@denvergov.org to report they want their vehicle removed from the program. DPD will verify this request over the phone and then remove the vehicle from the program. 

What is DPD doing to combat auto theft?

DPD is constantly working to reduce auto thefts by increasing the number of police officers on the streets, arresting those who steal vehicles, participating in the Metro Auto Theft Task Force, providing free steering wheel locking devices, and more.

What vehicles are trackable through the program?

Any vehicle with an installed tracking device, including factory-installed or after-market device, GPS and Bluetooth tracking devices, including:

• Bluetooth tracking devices, such as Apple AirTags, Tile, etc.
• Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac, Buick, & Opel
• Ford, Lincoln, & Mercury
• Chrysler, Dodge, Ram, Jeep, & Fiat
• BMW, Mini, & Rolls-Royce
• Honda & Acura
• Hyundai & Genesis
• Kia
• Mazda
• Mercedes-Benz & Freightliner
• Nissan, Infiniti & Datsun
• Subaru
• Toyota, Lexus & Scion
• VW, Audi, Bentley, Lamborghini & Porsche
• Tesla
• Volvo
• OnStar
• SiriusXM Guardian
• LoJack
• And more

Filling out and submitting this form confirms the listed vehicle has a relevant telematic, infotainment, car manufacturer, GPS, bluetooth or other tracking device within the vehicle. The Denver Police Department will request consent from the registered owner only if the registered vehicle is reported stolen.

DenverTrack Registration Form 

Lock Your Vehicle: Always lock your vehicle, even if you are only leaving it for a short period. Double-check that all doors, windows, and the sunroof are securely closed.

Park in Well-Lit and Busy Areas: Whenever possible, park your vehicle in well-lit and heavily trafficked areas. Thieves are less likely to target vehicles in these locations due to the increased risk of being seen.

Use Visible Theft Deterrents: Install visible theft deterrents such as steering wheel locks, tire locks, or a visible alarm system. These devices can act as a visual deterrent and discourage thieves from targeting your vehicle.

Install an Anti-Theft System: Consider investing in an electronic anti-theft system or a GPS tracking device. These systems can alert you or law enforcement if your vehicle is tampered with or stolen, increasing the chances of recovery.

Don't Leave Valuables in Sight: Avoid leaving valuable items, such as laptops, smartphones, bags, or wallets, in plain sight inside your vehicle. Valuables can attract thieves and increase the likelihood of a break-in.

Secure Your Keys: Keep your vehicle keys in a safe place, and never leave them unattended or easily accessible. Thieves can steal keys to easily drive away with your vehicle.

Be Cautious with Spare Keys: Don't leave spare keys in obvious locations, such as under floor mats or inside the glove compartment. Thieves know where to look for spare keys, so keep them in a secure place.

Be Mindful of Remote Keyless Entry Attacks: Criminals can use devices to intercept the signal from your remote keyless entry fob and unlock your vehicle. To prevent this, consider using a signal-blocking pouch or keeping your keys in a metal container or aluminum foil to block the signal.

Use Secure Parking: If possible, park your vehicle in a secure garage or parking lot with surveillance cameras or attendants. This adds an extra layer of security to your vehicle.

Stay Vigilant: Pay attention to your surroundings and report any suspicious activity. If you notice something unusual or see someone attempting to break into a vehicle, don't hesitate to contact the police.