Do Robotic Lawn Mowers Get Stolen Easily? And How to Protect Them

One of the main incentives for purchasing a robot lawn mower is its ability to automate the task. However, since it works unattended in open gardens, this naturally raises concerns about potential theft.

While built-in security systems, limited resale value, and tracking features make these machines far less attractive to thieves compared to other equipment, robot mowers still represent a significant investment for many owners. To reduce the risk, it helps to understand how theft typically occurs and which practical steps can further lower the chances.

Do Robotic Lawn Mowers Get Stolen?

Yes, robotic lawn mowers can be stolen, but it is relatively uncommon thanks to security features such as PIN codes, alarms, and tracking, which make them difficult to resell. They also have limited second-hand demand, further deterring many thieves who would prefer simpler, more generic equipment.

Common anti-theft features on robot lawn mowers

Most theft attempts are opportunistic rather than planned, like a quick grab from an unfenced garden or lifting the mower during operation. To counter this, choose robot lawn mowers equipped with built-in security features:

• Security lock systems: Models like GOAT A3000 LiDAR use PIN Code Protection. Once the mower is locked, it cannot be operated by unauthorized users without the correct code.
• Tracking: Common tracking methods like LiDAR and RTK allow owners to monitor location and receive alerts if the mower moves outside its defined zone.
• Anti-theft alarm: The built-in sensors in models like the GOAT O1000 RTK trigger loud alarms if the robot mower is unexpectedly lifted or moved outside the 656-foot range of the RTK reference station.
• Limited resale value: The value of a robot mower drops greatly once it is locked, limiting its appeal on the second-hand market.

Why do robot lawn mowers still get stolen?

Despite these protections, theft can still occur when security features are not fully used or when the device is easy to access. The most typical factors include:

• Poor use of security features: Leaving default PINs unchanged or disabling alarms and notifications weakens the built-in protection.
• Charging station placed in accessible areas: Stations near streets or open boundaries make the mower easier to grab quickly.
• No physical barriers: Open gardens without fences or gates invite access from passers-by.
• Left outside for extended periods: Leaving the mower unattended overnight or during long absences increases the chance of theft.
• High-traffic gardens: Gardens exposed to the public naturally face a higher theft risk than enclosed or private spaces.

How to Prevent Robot Lawn Mowers from Getting Stolen?

Protect your robot lawn mower from theft by fully utilizing built-in PIN code protection, anti-theft alarms, and real-time positioning. Furthermore, establish simple habits such as smart placement, secure storage, and visible deterrents to make the machines far less attractive and much harder to remove or resell.


 

1. Use all built-in security features

The first step is to familiarize yourself with how the security settings on your robot mower work and ensure they are enabled at all times. For GOAT users, set a strong PIN code; the machine will automatically lock when it is off the map, powered on, or being reset. In the ECOVACS HOME app, activate the anti-theft alarm and real-time positioning features to receive sound alerts when the robot moves outside the designated area. Avoid leaving default settings unchanged to reduce the risk of unauthorized use.

2. Secure the charging station

The charging station is normally a target along with the mower. Anchor it firmly to the ground and place it in a discreet location that is less visible and accessible for quick removal and opportunistic theft.

3. Store securely when not in use

Store your robot lawn mower indoors in a locked or monitored shed or garage overnight, during holidays, or in the off-season to block easy access during long idle periods.

4. Add an independent tracker

Consider placing an extra tracker onto the robot mower so that, even if the device is switched off or reset, the backup tracker can still help identify its location and recover the machine.

5. Improve garden security

Physical barriers like fences, locked gates, and dense hedges limit quick access and visibility from public areas, thereby enhancing security and making it difficult to enter quietly.

6. Increase visibility and deterrence

Attention and exposure are risks most thieves try to avoid; therefore, consider installing motion-activated lights and surveillance cameras, as visible measures can act as strong deterrents.

7. Check insurance coverage

Proper coverage provides financial reassurance if theft occurs despite preventive measures. Review your home insurance policy or any relevant coverage to confirm that your robot lawn mower is included.

What to Do If Your Robot Lawn Mower Gets Stolen?

Even if you implement all security measures on your robot lawn mower, there is still a chance that it may be stolen. While this can be frustrating, quick action, such as tracking and locking the machine remotely, can increase the chance of recovery.

• Track the mower: Immediately check the app or external tracker to identify its last known location and confirm whether it has moved outside its operating area.
• Report to authorities: Promptly report the theft to the authorities and provide serial numbers, tracking data, and timestamps to assist them in identifying and recovering the device.
• Lock and blacklist: Lock the robot mower through the app and provide the serial number and police case number to the dealer to blacklist the machine from receiving service or support.
• Claim insurance: If your home insurance policy covers robot lawn mowers, contact your agent to check your eligibility for a claim and see if compensation applies.
• Offer a reward: Offering a reward can encourage witnesses or third parties to share information about your stolen robot mower.

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