My co-worker alerted me to the phenomenon of people stealing tailgates off of pickups - anybody know if this is a real big issue here? Looked on Google, and it appears that it is, at least in certain parts of the country.

Found out mine has a lock, so I keep it locked. Also found a tip about putting a hose clamp around the slotted socket so the tailgate can't just be lifted out. Sure the clamp can be removed, but at least it'll slow them down or discourage them enough to go elsewhere.

I'd be interested to know if there's any other types of locks that are more effective. Like a different kind of clamp that's harder to remove? My tailgate has a backup camera, so I'm sure it's a juicier target.