It might depend on tax benefits, environmental awareness or Covid-19 concerns related to the use of public transport. It might also depend on the combination of each factor, but the fact is that the purchase of bikes – and ebikes – has significantly increased in the last times. Unfortunately, the fear of a theft is only second to concerns about road accidents. The “business” of stolen bikes has been, for some time, in the hands of specialized band targeting the most expensive models. Reported crimes are more than 500 thousands (+60% in the first half of 2020), but figures may not be trusted, since victims rarely report the theft in the belief that it would be very hard to trace the vehicle and get it back. Bureaucracy also stands in the way: reporting a theft frequently turns out into an obstacle course that discourages the victims from the very beginning. It is estimated that a report is filed for every 30 stolen bikes. How can we protect ourselves? Today, the main deterrent is still represented by high quality padlocks and chains. A smarter solution –especially for more expensive models to protect your bike at absolutely affordable costs – is represented by satellite technology. Small devices equipped with anti-theft functions. An example is given by Viasat Lock, which allows the tracking of your bike at any time with the help of our 24/7 Operations Centre.