Lately, you might have seen stories circulating online about strange objects being left on cars. From water bottles to cash, and even odd items like cheese, these tales have sparked curiosity and concern. Some videos suggest that these objects could be traps set by kidnappers or traffickers, waiting for unsuspecting drivers to fall into their schemes.
One recent viral video shows a woman in a parking lot pointing out wires wrapped around car door handles. The caption warns, “WTF is this a joke? Someone better not get kidnapped,” which naturally raises alarm. The theory is that these wires or strings are meant to distract drivers, giving criminals a chance to strike while the victim is preoccupied. Some even advise that if you find something like this on your car, you should immediately drive to a busy area and seek help.
But before you let fear take over, it’s important to know that these stories are likely just myths. The so-called “wire trick” rumor started back in 2015 with a Facebook post. Law enforcement in the Canadian city where it originated found no evidence of kidnappings linked to this tactic. Organizations focused on combating human trafficking also haven’t reported any cases involving such methods.
The rumor resurfaced a few years later in places like Texas and Michigan, but experts quickly dismissed it. The Director of the Human Trafficking and Social Justice Institute at the University of Toledo called the claims “ridiculous,” and local police labeled them as urban legends.
In reality, traffickers and criminals are more likely to use digital methods to target victims, often focusing on people they already know rather than random strangers. While it’s always good to stay cautious, worrying about strings on your car handle might distract you from more pressing concerns. Instead, focus on staying informed about real risks and practicing safe habits, both online and offline.
