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Tesla Owners Utilizing “Sentry Mode” to Combat Vandalism
Amidst a rise in vandalism targeting Teslas, owners are increasingly relying on the vehicles’ built-in “sentry mode” security feature. This feature utilizes the cars’ cameras and sensors to record suspicious activity around the parked vehicle.
When activated, sentry mode monitors the surroundings and triggers an alarm if a potential threat is detected, such as excessive movement or physical impact. The system also activates the car’s headlights and displays a warning message on the touchscreen indicating that recording is in progress. Owners receive alerts through the Tesla mobile app and can retrieve recorded footage stored on a connected USB drive.
While Tesla emphasizes that sentry mode is not a foolproof security solution, it serves as a deterrent and provides valuable evidence in the event of an incident. The feature is deactivated by default but can be enabled via voice commands or the mobile app.
This increased reliance on sentry mode follows a series of attacks on Tesla vehicles, with three individuals already facing federal charges. Attorney General Pamela Bondi issued a stern warning, stating that those engaging in such acts of vandalism will be prosecuted.