A fresh plague at gas stations. You could lose thousands of gold in seconds!

The end of the vacation is time for many drivers to return home. Long routes, fatigue and filled to the edges of trunks unfortunately attract not only another travelers but besides criminals. safety experts and police inform against a new, brazen method of theft, which is gaining popularity at fuel stations across Poland. The ‘empty tank’ method It's a perfidious way to usage a minute of indifference while refueling to deprive us of the most precious things. Thieves act fast, and losses can go into thousands of gold. It takes virtually a fewer seconds for a handbag, wallet or laptop to vanish from the passenger seat. This is simply a peculiarly crucial informing right now, erstwhile thousands of Poles return from their vacations, being an easier mark due to distraction and hurry. knowing the mechanics of this fraud is the first step towards effective protection.

How does the empty tank method work? Fraud strategy step by step

The mechanics of action of thieves is simple, but highly effective, due to the fact that it is based on sociotechnique and distraction. Criminals, usually operating in pairs, watch parking lots at fuel stations, tycooning their victims. They usually choose cars with roof trunks, bikes on a hook or simply filled with luggage, suggesting that the driver is on a long journey and can carry valuable items.

When the victim gets out of the car to refuel, the first criminal enters the action. He approaches the driver from the distributor's side and starts a conversation. He usually uses the pretext that in his own car right ran out of fuel (‘empty gas’) and asks for a small aid – borrowing respective zlotys, indicating the way or asking another absorbing question. The aim is to full focus the driver's attention on himself. At the same time as the victim's busy talking, The second thief approaches the car from the another side, most frequently on the passenger side.

Using the fact that the door is frequently ungrided, the partner immediately opens it, takes his purse, backpack, telephone or laptop lying on the seat, and quietly moves away. The full action takes only a few, respective seconds. By the time the driver realizes he's been robbed, the thieves are far away. The key component here is the distraction. – the human brain is incapable to full control 2 situations at the same time, which criminals absolutely exploit.

Who's most vulnerable? Check if you are in a hazard group

Although the victim of the “empty tank” method can fall, criminals have their favourite “types”. knowing who's on the mark allows us to increase vigilance. The most susceptible group are drivers returning from holidays or long business trips. Tiredness after many hours behind the wheel weakens concentration, and a car full of luggage is simply a clear signal for the thief that valuable items specified as electronic equipment, cash or papers may be inside.

The higher hazard group besides includes:

• Families with tiny children: Children can be absorbing and are a natural distraction for parents, making it easier for thieves to do so.
• Seniors: frequently seen as more trusting and little willing to confront, making them an easier target.
• Single travellers: The deficiency of a passenger to observe the surroundings makes the driver on his own.
• Drivers on the phone: Focusing on a telephone call while refueling is the perfect chance for criminals to act unnoticed.

Thieves like to choose large, crowded fuel stations on motorways and expressways. Large movement and anonymity make it easier for them to blend in and rapidly escape. peculiar care should be taken in specified places, especially during rush or late evening.

How do you defend yourself from theft? Simple rules to save your wallet

Protection against theft “on an empty tank” does not require complex safety systems, but only a fewer key habits. Remember, Prevention is always better than dealing with the consequences of theft. Losing documents, bank cards and valuable data is simply a immense stress and a problem that can be avoided.

Here are the most crucial safety rules at the fuel station:

• Always close the car: Coming out of the car, even for a minute to pay or refuel, immediately lock all doors with a central lock. It's the most crucial and easiest way to thwart attempted theft.
• Don't leave valuable things in plain sight: Put your bags, wallets, phones or laptops in the locker, under the seat or in the trunk before you scope the station. A thief, without seeing anything valuable, may quit his effort to break in.
• Be aware of the environment: Before you get out, take a look around and announcement those who are wandering around in the parking lot. Keep your alert throughout your visit to the station.
• Keep your distance: If a alien approaches you with an different request, keep a safe distance and do not let yourself get drawn into a long conversation. Be assertive, but polite. You can tell her to ask the station staff.
• Park in visible position: If possible, choice stations well lit and within scope of surveillance cameras, preferably close to the entrance to the station building.

Applying these simple rules importantly reduces the hazard of becoming a victim and allows you to proceed your journey peacefully.

What to do erstwhile you fall victim? VIRGIN Steps After Stealing

Despite caution, it may happen that we will be the mark of the attack. In specified a situation, fast and decisive action is crucial to minimise losses. First of all, Don't panic.. Emotions are a bad advisor, and all minute counts, especially if you've been stolen with payment cards and documents.

This is the procedure to be followed as shortly as the theft is established:

1. Call the police: Notify the event immediately by calling the emergency number 112. Enter the exact location of the fuel station and describe the situation and appearance of the perpetrators if you can remember them.
2. Save cards and documents: It's an absolute priority. Call your bank or usage your mobile app to immediately block all stolen cards. You can besides usage the National Kart Reservation strategy at number +48 828 828 828. The stolen identity card must be reported as shortly as possible to the municipal office or via the Internet.
3. Inform station support: Station staff should be informed of the theft. Ask him to safe surveillance footage that will be key evidence for the police.
4. Don't cover your tracks: As far as possible, do not contact the places that the perpetrator may have touched (e.g. door handles) in order not to destruct possible fingerprints.

Remember that vigilance and awareness of threats are your best insurance policy. The empty tank method is simply a real threat, but by applying the basic safety principles, you can effectively defend yourself and your possessions on each journey.