Maryland sees summer influx of auto thefts. Is social media the culprit?

BALTIMORE -- The summer is a hot season for car thieves, as police tend to see an influx of auto theft reports. AAA says one of the reasons Maryland is seeing the spike is social media.

Social media challenges have shown people how to bypass car security, whether it's a keyless entry or a key fob.

There are also specific valuable car parts that thieves are targeting to sell. Parts like transmissions, modern GPS systems and catalytic converters can be sold for their high value metal.

"We're also seeing technology in our cars that makes it easier for you as a driver. It also makes it easier for your car to be stolen such as people leaving their key fobs in their cars and things like that," Ragina Ali, the spokesperson for AAA Mid-Atlantic, said.

AAA recommended parking your car in open and well-lit areas to deter thieves. Other common sense tips include always keeping your windows and doors locked and removing any valuable items from your car, like electronics, and bringing them inside your home.