There are plenty of things in life that make me uneasy, but the idea of someone stealing my car ranks pretty high on the list. It’s not just about losing the vehicle—it’s about the sense of being violated, of having someone invade your personal space. And just when you think you’ve seen every trick in the book—like coins wedged in door handles or electronic key jammers—there’s always something new and unexpected. The latest? A plain plastic water bottle on your tire. It might sound ridiculous at first, but believe it or not, this everyday item could be part of a surprisingly clever trick used by car thieves to target their next victim.

Here’s how the scam works. Some crafty criminals have discovered that they can use a plastic bottle to not only mark a car but to create a perfect distraction. They typically wedge an empty bottle between the tread and wheel well of the front passenger-side tire. Why that specific location? Because it’s not easily visible from the driver’s side when you approach your car. You hop in, start the engine, and begin to pull away—then suddenly, you hear an odd crunching or crackling sound. It’s the kind of sound that makes any responsible driver stop in their tracks. You instantly worry that you might’ve run over something important or that there’s something wrong with your vehicle.

Naturally, most drivers would stop and get out to investigate. And that’s exactly what the thief is hoping for. In that moment, your attention is focused on the noise and the tire. The car might still be running. The door may be wide open. Your keys, phone, or bag might be sitting in plain view. Within seconds, the thief could jump into the driver’s seat and take off—or, if they’re not going after the entire vehicle, they might snatch your belongings and disappear before you even know what hit you. Either way, it’s a perfect example of how something as small and unassuming as a water bottle can be used to create a moment of vulnerability.

Now, I get it—it sounds like something you’d see in a suspense movie. I was skeptical, too. But when you stop and think about it, the method actually makes a disturbing amount of sense. Thieves aren’t always using high-tech gadgets or complicated plans. Sometimes, the simplest tricks are the most effective. All they need is one moment of distraction—and unfortunately, the plastic bottle method is surprisingly good at providing just that.

So, how can you protect yourself from falling for this sneaky trick? Awareness is your first line of defense. Now that you know about it, you’re already less likely to be caught off guard. If you ever notice a bottle lodged against one of your tires, especially on the passenger side, don’t panic. Instead, take a deep breath and check your surroundings before exiting the vehicle. Stay close to the driver’s door, and if you’re in a questionable area or feel unsafe, consider driving to a nearby gas station, store, or another well-populated spot before dealing with it. You can even call a friend or local security for backup if something feels off.

This is also a great reminder to practice a few common-sense safety habits that are easy to forget. Always lock your car, even if you’re stepping away for just a minute. Never leave your keys in the ignition or valuables visible inside your car. Thieves are opportunists, and they’re far less likely to strike if they don’t see an easy target. My grandma used to say, “Don’t tempt the devil,” and it turns out that advice still applies in the modern world of car theft.

Finally, be sure to share this information with the people you care about. The more people who are aware of tactics like this, the less likely they are to work. Whether it’s your family, friends, or coworkers, helping them stay informed is one simple way to keep them safe. In a world that seems to throw new threats our way every day, a little knowledge really can go a long way.

So, the next time you spot a plastic bottle near your car’s tire, don’t shrug it off as random trash. It could be more than just litter—it could be a signal that someone’s been watching. Stay alert, stay cautious, and above all, stay safe.