Why Electric Scooters Aren't Being Stolen: Security Features & Challenges

In recent years, electric scooters have become a popular means of transportation in many cities around the world, offering convenience, affordability, and an eco-friendly alternative to cars. Given the increasing number of e-scooters zipping around our streets, it's natural to wonder why we don't hear about more thefts taking place.

First and foremost, many electric scooters on the market have built-in security features that make them less attractive to thieves. Some models come with GPS tracking systems, allowing users and companies to keep tabs on the location of the scooter, while others have unique and difficult-to-remove hardware, making it challenging to strip them for parts.

Companies that rent out e-scooters, such as Lime and Bird, also have their own security features in place. For instance, Lime scooters require users to scan a QR code on the handlebars to unlock the scooter, while Bird scooters can be unlocked using the app. Both companies require users to set up an account with a valid credit card, which creates a digital trail for law enforcement to follow should a scooter go missing.

That being said, electric scooters are not immune to theft. In some cases, thieves have been known to cut brake lines, remove GPS trackers, or even attempt to hotwire the e-scooter in order to ride it without paying. However, these instances are far from the norm, as the risk of getting caught, the difficulty in bypassing security measures, and the limited resale value of stolen e-scooters have made them less enticing to criminals.

In conclusion, while e-scooter thefts do occur, the combination of built-in security features, corporate security measures, and the inherent challenges of stealing an e-scooter have deterred many potential thieves. As technology continues to advance and electric scooter companies become even more proactive in addressing security vulnerabilities, it's likely that we'll see even fewer thefts in the future.