Thieves have a sneaky tactic to tamper with car locks, and it often involves a penny. The coin is typically placed in the passenger side door handle, where it jams the central locking mechanism. When you try to unlock the car with your key, the coin obstructs the lock, preventing it from working as usual.

This trick is part of a bigger plan where thieves wait nearby, hoping you’ll become distracted while trying to unlock your car. They rely on you not noticing the coin and wasting time trying to figure out why your key isn’t working.

To protect yourself, it’s important to stay vigilant when entering or exiting your car, especially in unfamiliar areas. Be mindful of unusual objects like coins near your door handles, as they could be a sign that someone is trying to tamper with your vehicle.

In addition to being alert, consider using some DIY security tips, like adding extra locks or installing a steering wheel lock. These steps can help prevent tampering and keep your car safe from potential thieves.