Auto theft in Ontario has declined by 8.4% in the first half of this year, as reported by Équité Association. The data shows a decrease from 9,601 stolen vehicles in the same period last year to 8,796 in the first half of 2026.
This decrease follows the implementation of a national action plan in 2024 by the federal government to address the surge in auto theft, particularly in Ontario and the Toronto region. The plan involved measures like enhancing customs intelligence, investigating new detection technologies, and regulating the distribution of radio devices used in auto theft.
Dominic Monchamp, the director of investigation, intelligence, and investigative operations at Équité Association, emphasized the significance of the action plan, stating that it facilitated more active surveillance and improved coordination with law enforcement to combat auto theft.
However, despite the overall decline in auto theft across Canada, Toronto has seen an 8.8% increase in stolen vehicles so far this year. In comparison, by the end of 2025, auto thefts in Toronto had decreased by 32.2%.
Notably, three years ago, Toronto experienced over 12,000 vehicle thefts within a year, totaling $790 million in value. Of the approximately 70,000 vehicles stolen nationwide that year, around 30,000 were from Ontario.
The report highlights a downward trend in stolen vehicles across Canada, with a 10.1% decrease compared to the previous year. Alberta witnessed the highest drop at 15.1%, while Atlantic Canada saw the smallest decrease at 4.1%.
To maintain this positive trend, industry experts stress the importance of enhancing cybersecurity measures in vehicles to prevent cyber attacks that facilitate car theft. Manufacturers are actively updating software, incorporating tracking systems, and enabling phone connectivity to alert owners of any tampering with their vehicles.
A recent survey conducted by Équité revealed that nearly 75% of Canadian respondents believe mandatory anti-theft technology in vehicles is necessary, indicating a growing awareness of the need for enhanced security measures in the automotive industry.