‘Sliders’ Stealing Valuables from Cars Across the US

While the term ‘sliders’ might evoke images of tiny hamburgers, criminals are giving the word a brand new meaning. Thieves are ‘sliding’ into victim’s cars, through unlocked doors and open windows, and snatching any valuables within reach. These sliders wait patiently, usually at gas stations, for victims to begin fueling and then strike. From ABC News:

From Corbin, Ky., to Tampa, slippery sliders are being caught on camera all across the country. Sometimes the perpetrator is caught red-handed, but most of the time the victim has no idea until it’s too late… Often operating at gas stations while customers are casually pumping fuel, thieves lying in wait pounce, snatching purses and other valuables, then running off.

Protect Yourself

So what should you do? How do you protect yourself and your belongings? The answer is simple – keep your items with you and lock your doors. Officer Jim Woods of the Houston P.D. had this to say:

“They’re not looking for a confrontation,” Houston police officer Jim Woods told ABC News. “They just want the property, because they know it’s being left abandoned and you’re not paying enough attention.” Authorities say the best thing the public can do is lock car doors every time the vehicle is exited. “It’s yours, protect it,” Woods said. “And the easiest way to protect it is keep it locked up, keep it with you, and don’t leave it in the vehicle unoccupied.”

Burglars don’t want to be confronted. That’s why they sneak in when you’re not paying attention –they’re merely looking for a quick, easy score. So keep your belongings close by, since a burglar is less likely to take the chance when they know the risk of getting caught is higher. It’s also a good time to remind you that should a slider manage to get a hold of your belongings, it is highly advised to not confront them.

Stay Safe

While sliders are only targeting cars, the act still leaves victims with a sense of vulnerability. Commonly stolen items include phones and wallets, which contain very personal information such credit cards, home addresses and social security numbers. When we have something valuable or sensitive stolen from us, it’s natural to feel the effects.

FrontPoint cares about your safety, whether you’re at home or in your car. After all, protecting homes and families is our highest priority. It’s why we’re the nationwide leader in wireless home security. Our goal is to be your resource for all things related to home and personal security, including new crime trends. So don’t fall victim to sliders. Be mindful of your surroundings, keep your belongings with you, and lock your vehicles, and. In other words, stay safe.