La has long been home to street takeovers like this. Street racers blocking off roads and intersections, performing dangerous stunts and maneuvers. And tonight, a new warning. Thiefs may be looking to steal your car to take it for a joy ride.

Usually, people don't do that to their own vehicles that they own because of the wear and carry, and of course, the expenses that would cost to actually repair a vehicle, it was to be damaged.

In Los Angeles, the problem has gotten so bad. Police say they've seen a massive spike in car thefts, a more than 1,000% increase in just the first two months of this year. And the thief's car of choice, the Chevy Camaro. Why, specifically, are we seeing such an uptick with the Chevy Camaro?

We've seen that it's a muscle car that young juveniles or young adults really like. It's a popular car. And, of course, the horsepower that the vehicle has, they're able to speed, and of course, do maneuvers in these vehicles.

Police say car thefts can use a device the size of a cell phone, which can pick up on the signal nearby key fobs. Once it detects a key fob, it can copy it, which allows car thefts to open the car door, reprogram the ignition system, and the entire process can take less than three minutes.

Experts say you can buy the duplicating devices online, anywhere from $500 to $2,000. They're meant to help people who have lost their car keys, but now, thefts are using it to get their hands on Cameros valued at approximately $30,000. Some are being used for street racing, others are being sold online.

If an individual see a vehicle being sold that appears to be brand new, take heat and not consider purchasing that vehicle.

Police say to protect yourself, never keep your key fob in your car. And consider using a security case or wrapping your fob in aluminum foil to prevent the signal from being detected. Lapd now trying to get a grip on this alarming trend. Priya Shreither, NBC News, Los Angeles.

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