'Sliders' target unsuspecting drivers
SEATTLE -- It can happen in an instant, and police say it's happening to unsuspecting drivers nationwide. "Sliders" are crooks targeting parked cars with unlocked windows.
Seattle police said that the crooks strike at gas stations, parking lots and anywhere they can reach in an unlocked car door window and steal valuables. Typically, the crooks are looking for purses, backpacks, laptops, cellphones -- any valuable that may contain important personal information. Once the crooks access your laptop or cellphone, they can steal your info and you could be vulnerable to identity theft.
Burglary of motor vehicles outrank all other forms of property crime, police report. The typical time from theft of your valuable to the first unauthorized use by the crook is about 15 minutes. While these "sliders" target drivers in parking lots, the many security surveillance cameras at these locations often catch the crook in the act of these crimes.
Police suggest that the best way to stop these sliders is for drivers to always lock their vehicle's doors and windows. Also, drivers should never leave valuables unsecured or in plain sight inside their vehicle.