University Police on Tuesday reported a growing trend of catalytic converters being stolen from the exhaust systems beneath vehicles parked on campus.

These catalytic converters are made of precious metals such as platinum that can be scrapped for profit.

Once the converters are stripped from the vehicle, the vehicle is disabled; the exhaust system is damaged and can cost hundreds, or sometimes thousands of dollars to repair.

Police believe the thieves are targeting Toyota pickup trucks, Toyota sport utility vehicles or other high-profile cars that provide easy access to under the vehicle.

Identities and descriptions of the perpetrators were not given.

To prevent future catalytic thefts on campus, University Police recommend students park in areas where their vehicles will be seen by passersby. They also said students should parking under lights after dark, or perhaps next to a pedestrian walkway, which officers said can also keep your car safe.

University Police also said when parking a high-profile vehicle, find an area surrounded with lower-profile cars to possibly deter thieves.

Officers said if a catalytic converter is a “bolt-on” model, have the bolts welded shut. Engrave the catalytic converter with your driver’s license number and state to help police identify the converter if stolen.

The police said to make sure to file a police report immediately after the theft is noticed.

They asked students to please call the dispatch center at (916) 278-6851 to report any suspicious activity or persons on campus. The center is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.