This holiday season, if you see some money stuck on your windshield, don't assume it's your lucky day. It could be a trap. Only bad things like parking tickets and passive aggressive notes about how badly you parked should be there. Certainly not cash.

Army Criminal Investigation Command (CID)issued a warning Wednesday about a trend of thefts and carjackings initiated by a victim noticing and retrieving cash left on his or her windshield.

The distraction provides time for the thief to rush in and grab merchandise, purses, or other goods left unattended for just a moment, — or even the car itself, — if keys are in the ignition when the discovery is made.

"What we've heard is criminals will place a $100 bill, usually on an individual's windshield under the wiper blade, and while the victim is distracted and gets out to retrieve the cash, the criminals use the element of surprise to approach the vehicle and rob the victim of their belongings and car," said Special Agent Mark Kerr, a CID agent with Headquarters, in a press release.

The scam, which typically targets holiday shoppers, was first reported to Prince George's County, (Md.), law enforcement, according to Maryland's Attorney General's office, but has spread nationwide, the release said.

Kerr said anyone finding money on their vehicle should quickly move to a safe and public location and notify law enforcement or security personnel. He recommended locking the doors of the car and not getting out to retrieve the cash.

Other tips from the press release:

  • Have your keys in hand when approaching your vehicle. Check the back seat and around the car before getting in.
  • Park in well-lit areas and as close to the store as possible.
  • Avoid becoming an easy target for thieves by not purchasing more than you can safely carry.
  • Plan ahead by taking a friend with you or ask a store employee to help you carry your packages to the car. If leaving a store late at night and by yourself, ask security to walk you to your car if you feel threatened.
  • Wait until asked before taking out your credit card or checkbook. An enterprising thief would love to "shoulder surf" to get your account information.
  • Do not leave packages visible in your car windows. Lock them in the trunk or, if possible, take them directly home.
  • Deter pickpockets. Carry your purse close to your body or your wallet inside a coat or front trouser pocket.
  • Tell a security guard or store employee if you see an unattended bag or package. The same applies if you are using mass transit.
  • If you are shopping with children, make a plan in case you get separated. Select a central meeting place and make sure they know they can ask mall personnel or store security employees if they need help.
  • Always be alert and aware of your surroundings; do not blindly walk in public areas focused on your phone.
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