If you see money on your windshield, call the police!

People frequently assume they are fortunate to find money. It turns out that luck isn’t always good. Police are warning drivers about crimes involving cash placed on car windshields.

Newsweek reports that carjackers have deposited counterfeit money on parked automobile windshields to distract drivers and steal their vehicles. While this fraud may not be as common as some believe, individuals must be aware, behave sensibly, and observe how carjackers mislead people to lower their chances of becoming victims.

Car theft is a big worry among drivers in the United States. According to Insurify.com, the United States experiences one vehicle theft every 36 seconds. Therefore, the problem is genuine. According to studies, vehicle theft is more widespread in western states, including California. However, vehicle theft is on the rise in many cities as well as in rural regions. Many cities are experiencing an increase in carjackings, which are defined as motor thefts that occur in the victim’s presence. Some cases may involve the use of a weapon. Occasionally, a perpetrator deceives a victim into leaving their vehicle. Newsweek details the operation of the money-on-the-windshield scam. Car thieves hide phony money behind a parked vehicle’s windshield wiper. They wait for the owner’s return. The owner enters the vehicle, turns it on, notices the money, and opens the door to remove it. Once the automobile is running and the door is open, the robbers rush in to steal it.

Some groups argue that the money on the windshield narrative is an ancient urban legend and that most thieves do not use it as a legitimate theft strategy. However, given the unpredictability of intentions, it is better to report suspicious instances to the authorities. Whenever possible, drivers should park in well-lit and heavily used areas away from secluded spots, dumpsters, and large vans or trucks, all of which limit visibility. We remind people to remain vigilant and inspect the car before exiting to ensure the location is secure. Always close and lock windows and doors, as well as keep the car keys with you. Furthermore, never leave valuables in the car or leave a vehicle running unattended, especially with minors inside. Above all, if you feel endangered, call 911 right away or drive to the nearest police or fire station for assistance.