Roof rack locking mechanism broke. Safety concern? Or just theft deterrent?

Long story, but the “tooth” that extends to prevent the wing nut from turning is broken on 1 of the4 corners.

If it’s just there to prevent the roof rack from being stolen, so be it. If it’s more of a safety lock preventing the wingnut to vibrate off, more of a concern.

I doubt these nuts would vibrate off when torqued down properly. I supposed I could also put some loctite on there also.

Is this more of a theft detractor or a safety lock?

Thoughts?