Latest news with #Zego
News24
23-05-2025
- Automotive
- News24
5 Security hacks to prevent car theft
In the past five years, over 220 000 households have experienced car thefts. This is according to 2023/24 Stats SA's Victims of Crime (VoC) report which highlight the surge in car theft rates. Experts from Zego have offered five tips to help drivers protect their vehicles during the busy travel season. Five tips to keep your car safe from theft 1. Use a steering wheel lock It is simple, but effective! A steering wheel lock is a visible deterrent that makes it harder and slower to steal a car, especially for thieves using relay technology. Bonus Tip: Hook your seatbelt through the wheel as a backup if you don't have a lock! It's not foolproof but adds an extra layer of hassle for thieves. Read more | Be generous, not gullible: 9 tips to dodge Easter-scammers 2. Etch your VIN into all windows Having your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) chemically etched into every window makes your car traceable and less attractive to thieves. Replacing all windows is costly, and many buyers avoid VIN-etched cars due to their traceability. You can get this done at an auto-shop or buy an online DIY kit and do it yourself. 3. Beware of illegal tow trucks Criminal gangs have been known to use unmarked or fake tow trucks to steal vehicles in broad daylight. If a tow truck seems suspicious (e.g. no uniform, an unbranded truck), take photos, ask for ID and report them immediately. Read more | South Africa's 2025 property surge: The revival, risks and what to expect next 4. Protect your car from key hacking A lot of car thefts happen through key hacking, which is why it's crucial to take necessary steps to minimise the chances of that happening. There are a few measures you can take: Disable your keyless car entry - In most cases you should be able to disable it on your own through the infotainment system, the instrument cluster or the key fob, but it's best to contact your car manufacturer first to get specific instructions for your particular vehicle. Signal-block your car keys - Using a pouch to store your keys in is the most efficient way to do so, as its metallic material lining helps block radio-frequency signals. Place your keys away from doors and windows - Storing your keys near entry points in your home increases the chances of thieves intercepting the signal from your key fob - keep them further inside to minimise the risk. 5. Turn your wheels to the curb when parking Another simple yet overlooked deterrent - turn your wheels sharply toward the curb when parking. Doing so makes it harder for thieves to quickly tow or roll your car away and adds resistance for anyone trying to jack up the car and remove the wheels.
Scotsman
28-04-2025
- Automotive
- Scotsman
Drive smart, save big! Zego launches app-based car insurance for new drivers
Zego – the dynamic car insurance company transforming the roads – has unveiled a groundbreaking new policy designed to tackle the soaring cost of motoring for Britain's newest motorists. Sign up to our Scotsman Money newsletter, covering all you need to know to help manage your money. Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... In a move welcomed by families up and down the country, Zego has launched an innovative app-based telematics insurance – scrapping the hassle of bulky black box devices fitted under the bonnet. Now, your smartphone monitors everything. The launch could not come at a better time. For young and new drivers across Scotland, insurance costs have spiralled to astonishing levels – with average premiums topping £2,400 a year. In bustling cities such as Glasgow and Edinburgh, drivers face quotes upwards of £2,600. Meanwhile, in smaller towns like Inverness and Dumfries, premiums typically hover between £1,900 and £2,100. Many cash-strapped youngsters are being priced off the roads. How it works Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Sten Saar CEO of Zego Insurance The Zego Sense app monitors driving behaviour – from smooth braking to careful cornering and observing speed limits – and rewards safe habits with generous discounts. "We're putting power back in drivers' hands," a Zego spokesperson said. "Young motorists are being hammered for their age. Our new app lets them prove they're safe drivers from day one – and save money for it." Unlike older telematics schemes, Zego's system doesn't impose harsh curfews or restrictions. Whether heading home late from a shift or grabbing a midnight Maccies, young drivers remain free to travel – sensibly, of course. The perks: Instant journey feedback direct to your phone direct to your phone Weekly driving scores to track progress to track progress Exclusive rewards for top-rated drivers for top-rated drivers Lower renewal premiums for consistently safe driving With costs for first-time drivers at eyewatering levels, every pound saved matters – and Zego's new scheme could be the difference. Safe driving = cheaper insurance Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Industry experts have hailed the move as a "revolution" in making driving affordable again for Britain's youth. "Telematics is the future," one insider said. "Schemes like Zego's will help young people get on the road without breaking the bank." Who can get it? The app-based telematics policy is available now for drivers aged 17 to 25. Signing up is quick and easy – no engineer visits, no long waits, no fuss. Ready to drive down your costs?
