In a world where helping those in need is deeply ingrained in our instincts, a mother’s warning about a new scam has gone viral, urging others to be cautious. The scam involves exploiting the kindness of strangers by setting up what appears to be an abandoned baby or stroller on the side of the road.
The mother’s post, accompanied by a photo of a stroller next to some bushes, carries a sense of urgency as she emphasizes the need to prioritize personal safety. Her message reads: “If you see a stroller, car seat, or any type of baby situation alone in the middle of nowhere, please, I repeat, don’t get out. Be safe.”
The public’s reaction to this warning was immediate and widespread. Many people expressed their agreement and shared their own concerns:
Safety Concerns: One person commented, “Yes, people lie in wait. At best they rob you, at worst they bash you too.”
Economic Desperation: Another person noted, “Families are struggling, some of them will use kids as bait.”
This ‘abandoned baby’ tactic is employed by thieves who lay in wait, ready to ambush well-meaning individuals. Once a compassionate person stops to check on the seemingly abandoned stroller, the criminals strike, often resulting in robbery or physical harm.
While this warning may seem new, similar alerts have been issued in the past. However, this post has gained significant attention, with people from around the world commenting on the cruel nature of using a baby as bait.
Given the potential danger, many people advised alternative actions to stopping:
Call Authorities: “I would just call the police to have a look at it. It sounds harsh but it isn’t worth the trouble.”
Stay Vigilant: Others suggested staying in the vehicle and contacting law enforcement instead of physically intervening.
Not all responses were serious; some found humor in the situation:
Husband’s Struggle: “This stroller was probably dumped by my husband who, after two years, still can’t work out how to fold it for the boot.”
Toddler Tantrums: “A mum had to dump it because her toddler wanted to walk but didn’t want her to push the groceries in the empty pram. She will be back to get it later.”
The ‘abandoned baby’ scam is just one example of deceptive practices that exploit Good Samaritans. Other similar scams include:
The ‘Dead Man’: A person feigns being passed out on the roadside.
The Screaming Woman: Individuals scream for help, only to ambush those who come to their aid.
With the viral post having been shared 23,000 times and having attracted thousands of comments, it is clear that there is widespread concern about this issue. It is vital to stay vigilant in a world where scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated. While the instinct to help is noble, it is crucial to prioritize personal safety and rely on authorities to handle potentially dangerous situations.
If you ever encounter an ‘abandoned baby’ or any other suspicious situation, remember to stay safe, call the police, and avoid putting yourself in harm’s way. Being aware and cautious can make all the difference.
