People who have recently obtained insurance for young drivers are among those being advised by the Bedfordshire police to keep their car keys safely hidden away.
The law enforcers have been contacted by a number of local home-owners, who have had their keys snatched by opportunist thieves.
Among the list of cars to have been stolen by the key thieves are a brand new Vauxhall Insignia, a VW Golf, and a Vauxhall Tigra.
Drivers who are worried at the prospect of having to make cheap car insurance claims following the theft of their cars, have been told to double lock their doors and refrain from leaving their keys in easily accessible areas.
The head of the Vehicle Crimes Intelligence Service said, "Although high-end cars are stolen to order by criminals, those driving more affordable vehicles should not be complacent. Whatever vehicle you drive, security should always be a priority."
The association also advised motorists to "ensure that car keys are not left in sight within your house: thieves often fish keys through letterboxes and open windows".
Those individuals who have a tendency to mislay valuable items are encouraged to make sure that their insurance for young drivers comes with cover for lost and stolen keys.