Have you heard about the recent buzz online? Women are finding random water bottles on their cars or spotting strange markings outside their homes, and it’s causing quite a stir. Viral videos suggest that these could be tactics used by kidnappers and traffickers targeting women.
The code “1F” is believed to mean “one female,” using the water bottle as bait to lure women out of their cars.
One video shows a woman filming a car with a wire attached to the door handle in a parking lot. The caption reads, “WTF is this a joke? Someone better not get kidnapped.” Shockingly, she reveals a second vehicle with a wire wrapped around its handle too.
Reacting to these scary videos, a man posted a TikTok video explaining that using a zip-tie, wire, or thread on a car door is a known tactic by those looking to abduct women. He calls it “one of the oldest tricks in the book.” The wire is twisted around the handle to make it difficult to remove quickly, giving criminals an opportunity to strike.
However, it’s important to stay calm and put things in perspective. The “wire trick” first came up in a Facebook post back in 2015. Canadian police, where the post started, confirmed that no kidnappings had happened because of this tactic. Organizations fighting human trafficking haven’t recognized the “wire trick” as a trend either.
The director of the University of Toledo’s Human Trafficking and Social Justice Institute dismissed these social media warnings as “ridiculous.” He thinks they’re just urban legends or scare tactics. Authorities also point out that traffickers mainly operate online and target people they know, not strangers.
@ice.lemon.water We thought it was a joke at first until we found the second one 😳 #fyp #foryou #foryoupage #scary #viral #trending #BoseAllOut ♬ Scary – Background Sounds
While it’s always crucial to be cautious and aware of your surroundings, don’t let fear take over. Stay informed, trust your instincts, and seek help when needed. Remember, we can create a safer community for everyone by staying vigilant and supporting each other.
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