Have you heard about the current online stories? Concerning women are finding odd markings outside their houses or stray water bottles on their cars. Videos that have gone viral raise the possibility that these are strategies employed by traffickers and kidnappers who prey on women. The water bottle is used as bait to get women out of their cars; the code “1F” is thought to stand for “one female.”

One such video shows a woman in a parking lot shooting a car with a wire fastened to the door handle. WTF is this a joke, asks the caption. Someone had better not be taken hostage. To the amazement of all, a second car is seen with a wire wrapped around its handle.

In reaction to these concerning films, a man uploaded a TikTok video outlining how those who want to kidnap women frequently use a zip-tie, wire, or thread to fasten a car door. One of the oldest ruses in the book, he calls it. To make the wire difficult to remove fast, it is coiled around the handle, allowing robbers and kidnappers a chance to strike.

Still, one must maintain perspective. A Facebook post from back in 2015 was the first to reference the “wire trick.” No kidnappings had resulted from this strategy, according to Canadian authorities, where the post originated. Additionally unaware of the “wire trick” as a trend are organizations that oppose human trafficking.

These social media alerts were written down by the director of the Human Trafficking and Social Justice Institute at the University of Toledo as “ridiculous”. He feels they are just scare tactics or urban tales. Authorities also stress that traffickers mostly work online and go for people they know rather than total strangers.

Being watchful and aware of our surroundings is always crucial, but fear should never rule. Remain knowledgeable, follow your gut, and get assistance when you need it. Never forget, working together, we can make our town safer for everyone.