Thieves are always finding new and clever ways to victimize unsuspecting people. Our biggest defense against those who steal from everyday citizens is spreading awareness of their newest techniques. A new trend for thieves at gas stations everywhere is called ‘sliding.’ This is when someone sneaks up to your car while you’re distracted at the pump, opens your car door, and takes whatever they can quickly get their hands on.
Police are warning about a breed of criminals on the rise called ‘sliders,’ who are stealing purses from people who are just trying to get some gas
As if there isn’t enough to worry about these days, there’s a new style of crime on the rise at gas stations known as ‘sliding.’ The last thing you’re expecting when you’re pumping your gas is for someone sneak into your car and steal your valuables, but unfortunately, it’s happening more and more.
It happens in literal seconds before the victims even know whats going on the criminal is long gone. Many videos’ are immerging, showing cars pulling up next to individuals getting gas and someone covertly hopping out and creeping up to the passenger door.
You can see the thieves hunched over, using the cars as a shield to sneak right up and snatch purses and whatever else they can get their hands on
It’s a brazen crime, where the criminal relies on their victims to be distracted for long enough to strike. It can also be a very dangerous situation, some people have put their life on the line to stop a ‘slider’ in action.
One Florida woman who saw a ‘slider’ sneak into her car, actually chased him down and leaped onto the hood of his car. Although this can be a natural reaction to people stealing from you, police say you should never do this. They recommend getting as much information about the thief and contacting local authorities.
We’ve all been guilty of being distracted while pumping gas, but with crimes like this on the rise it’s important to be aware
While women seem to be targeted more during ‘sliding,’ that doesn’t mean men aren’t vulnerable too. It’s hard to imagine that someone would be bold enough to steal from you right in your presence, but countless videos prove that to be the case.
If you see someone at the gas station sitting in their car but not pumping gas, it doesn’t hurt to drive away and find a different gas station. There are a few simple ways that you can guarantee yourself safe from ‘sliders.’
How can you protect yourself against this type of crime?
Protecting yourself from ‘sliders’ may be easier than you think. Law enforcement suggests the following:
- Always lock your car when at the gas pump
- Don’t leave your purse and other belongings in plain sight
- Be aware of your surroundings
Follow those tips to keep yourself safe from ‘sliders’
It’s a sad fact that we even have to think about these types of crimes, but it is also a reality that we must face. Luckily, simply locking your doors and taking your keys with you is a full-proof defense against these bold thieves. To see a ‘slider’ stealing in action, watch the video below!
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