NIU Campus Police are warning students about an increase of car parts theft.

Police officials have been responding to theft of catalytic converters off of vehicles on and near campus, according to a Jan. 29 Community Awareness Bulletin.

A catalytic converter reduces the amount of carbon emissions a running vehicle puts in the air. These converters are often made of platinum.

The campus police suggested students park in well-lit, busy areas to avoid having their catalytic converter stolen off of their vehicle.