Anti-Theft Day (Tonan Boushi no Hi)

What Is Anti-Theft Day?

October 7 is Anti-Theft Day in Japan. It was established in 2003 by the General Insurance Association of Japan, based on a wordplay in which 10 and 7 can be read as "to-nan," meaning theft. Its goal is to reduce car theft, theft from vehicles, and residential burglaries. Around this date, awareness campaigns are held across Japan in cooperation with police and crime prevention groups.

A History of Locks and Security

The struggle against theft has continued since people first began to own property.

• Ancient wooden locks: Locks have a long history. About 4,000 years ago in ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia, locks using wooden pins were reportedly in use, and their principle is related to today's cylinder locks.
• Locks in Japan: In Japan, locks from the Nara period survive at the Shosoin repository, and in the Edo period Japanese-style locks were widely used on storehouses and chests.
• Car theft prevention: Physical tools such as steering wheel locks were once the main defense, but today many cars have immobilizers that prevent the engine from starting without a registered key. At the same time, new methods to defeat them have appeared, and the cat-and-mouse game continues.

What Burglars Dislike

Japan's National Police Agency crime prevention website and other sources explain that homes that take longer to break into are less likely to be targeted.

• About 70% give up after five minutes: According to a survey, about 70% of intruders give up if it takes more than five minutes to get in, and almost all give up after ten minutes.
• Two locks per door: Simply adding an extra lock to doors and windows increases the time needed to break in.
• The CP mark: Building parts that meet security standards set by a joint public-private council, including the National Police Agency, carry the "CP mark."

Theft Prevention Trivia

• Unlocked entry is common: In many residential burglaries, intruders get in through unlocked windows or doors. It's important to lock up even when taking out the trash.
• Lock your bicycle: Bicycle theft is a common crime, and unlocked bicycles are said to be easy targets. Using two locks is also recommended.
• Neighbors' eyes: Neighborhoods where people greet each other and keep an eye out are considered harder targets for intruders.
• Digital theft: Account takeovers caused by reused passwords are increasing. Turning on two-factor authentication is an easy step.
• Bicycle registration: In Japan, registering your bicycle for theft prevention is required by law, and it helps identify your bike if it's recovered.

Ideas for Anti-Theft Day

• Review your smartphone and computer passwords and stop reusing them. Try setting up two-factor authentication.
• Walk around your home from the viewpoint of someone trying to get in. Check for things that could be used as a step and windows hidden from view.
• Get into the habit of using two locks on your bicycle or motorbike.
• Back up important data so you can recover it even if a device is stolen.

Small Steps Prevent Big Losses

Anti-Theft Day on October 7 is a day to review the protections around you. Adding a second lock, changing a password, locking up even for a short trip out — each takes only a few minutes, but they are said to be very effective at preventing losses. Instead of thinking "it won't happen to me," why not update at least one safeguard today?