Car Park Scam: Warning

I have heard of an email doing the rounds (though I haven't seen it yet) about people returning to their parked cars and after starting them realise that there is a piece of paper stuck on the rear window obstructing their view. The natural thing to do is get out to remove the paper and this is when the buggers strike - usually the keys have been left in the ignition so all the criminals/thugs/expletive deleted have to do is drive off and leave the poor bemused motorist standing.

This may be another urban legend but at this time of year (or any time of year for that matter) it does no harm to be extra careful. Remember there is always somebody out there trying to separate you from your property.

According to: http://www.hoax-slayer.com/car-jacking-warning.html

Status:False - Totally unsubstantiated
Example:(Submitted, December 2005)

ALL CAR OWNERS AND CAR DRIVERS, PLEASE READ
(originated from [Name of Insurance Company Removed])

Be aware of a new car-jacking scheme. You walk across the car park, unlock your car and get inside, lock the doors, start the engine and select reverse. You look into the rear-view mirror to back out of your parking space and notice a piece of paper stuck to the middle of the rear window. So, you shift back into park or neutral, unlock the doors and get out to remove the paper (or whatever it is) that is obstructing your view.When you reach the back of your car the car-jackers appear out of nowhere, jump into your car and take off. Your engine was running and you would have left your handbag or briefcase in the car.

APART FROM NICKING ANYTHING OF VALUE, THEY MIGHT FIND YOUR ADDRESS AND THEY ALREADY HAVE YOUR KEYS!

Remember, if you see your rear view blocked like this just drive away and remove the paper later! It is stuck to your window!

THIS SCAM IS HAPPENING IN LONDON RIGHT NOW AND WILL SURELY SPREAD TO OTHER AREAS

Be thankful that you read this email and forward it to friends and family especially to women!

JUST BE AWARE AND TAKE CARE. IT WILL SOON ARRIVE IN YOUR AREA.

Like it says - JUST BE AWARE AND TAKE CARE.