Minnesotans Warned Of Being Targeted By ‘Sliders’ In Public Places

Lately, it seems we can't go more than a week without being warned of some new scam that we need to be wary of and, of course, warn our friends and neighbors about.

With technology advancing quickly, these scams often involve criminals sending emails, texts, or calling our cell phones using random numbers, sometimes within our area codes, to convince us to provide personal information.

Now, AI has become involved and scammers can make phone calls even sound like they're coming from people we know who are in trouble and need money to avoid jail or worse.

With these scams using tech against us, it may be easy to let our guard down when it comes to crimes that can happen in person, while in public places in Minnesota. However, there is a type of crime that everyone must protect themselves against because it happens daily.

Beware Of 'Slider' Crimes In Minnesota

Most scams and crimes have been around for a while, criminals just look for new angles to get what they want. 'Slider' crimes are the same because they aren't new, but criminals are taking bolder approaches. That's terrifying because these are crimes that could put you face-to-face with your attacker.

By definition, a slider crime is a type of theft where a criminal quickly enters an unlocked car to steal valuables or the vehicle itself. The term 'slider' refers to the criminal's quick entry into the car.

Slider crimes can happen anywhere but are most common at gas stations, parking lots, daycare centers, ATM locations, and even your driveway at home. The 'sliders' goal is to steal purses, wallets, laptops, cell phones, and other valuables, but in some instances, they may actually steal your vehicle.

While each of these crimes can look a little different, here is how they generally occur:

• A criminal, known as a "slider", follows a victim's car
• The criminal pulls into an adjacent lane when the victim pulls into a gas pump lane or parking spot.
• The victim steps out of their car and looks around
• The criminal opens the victim's opposite vehicle door and steals valuables

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The boldest slider crimes involve 2 criminals, with one pulling up behind your car to block you in as the accomplice opens your passenger door to rob you. This news report from KSTP in Minnesota shows how terrifying that can be.

How To Prevent Becoming A Victim Of A Slider Crime

While these personal, in-public, attacks can be terrifying, they can also be prevented. Authorities say taking these steps can help prevent the crime:

• Turn off your car, lock it, and take your keys with you when you get out
• Don't leave valuables out in plain sight
• Don't leave your car engine running, or leave keys in the ignition, while pumping gas or walking up to an ATM

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Lastly, if you find yourself becoming a victim of a slider crime, do not attempt to fight the criminal as it could escalate to a physical confrontation and you don't know what type of weapon they might have in their possession.