Auto theft isn't something new, but there's a pattern law enforcement says is emerging.
"What we're seeing now is the connection between vehicle thefts, identify theft, residential burglary and mail theft," said Lenny Sherman, CHP.
You lock your car and think it's safe but what's inside can hurt you.
"The garage door opener in combination with insurance and registration, obviously you just gave the person not only your name and address, he knows where your vehicle is so he has an idea of when you're not home and now he has immediate access into your home as well," said Sherman.
Just having your insurance and registration inside your car leaves you wide open for identity theft and your home getting broken into. Shirley Bellinder was a victim of auto theft in Fresno a year ago.
"Invasive, intrusive like somebody has been in my car, you know," said Bellinder.
Yet when we asked her where she keeps her registration...
"Yea it's right back in my glove compartment and you think I out of all people after having it stolen I would put it in a different place," said Bellinder.
And she's not alone; drivers must have their insurance and registration on hand so law enforcement says that doesn't mean you have to leave it in your car when you're not in it.
"I'm telling my family and my friends you know if you have those things put them in your wallet or purse don't leave those in your car," said Sherman.
Another tip, don't leave personal items in your car, law enforcement says what you consider trash like bank statements or old mail could turn into treasure for auto thieves.
