How to Avoid the Wobbly Wheel Scam Recently Hitting Texas

It appears that drivers in Texas have been falling prey to a scam called the wobbly wheel. According to Houston police, a man and woman were recently arrested for conning drivers under the guise that the victim has a loose wheel. They begin by honking their horns or trying to catch the driver’s attention. “If the victim pulls over and off the roadway, the suspects convince the victim the wheel could be fixed with a vehicle part they happened to have with them,” the city identified to the press. “The suspects then ask to be reimbursed for the part. After ‘repairing’ the wheel, the suspects drive the victim… to a bank or ask for payment in gift cards,” the authorities divulged. It’s a scam that more than a few unsuspecting folks have fallen for.

Photo: Pixabay

Because those who are running the scam appear to be helpful and friendly, incidents have most likely gone unreported. However, in instances where the victim doesn’t have any money to pay for the supposed part that was required, “the suspects become forceful and even threatening.” How can Texans avoid falling victim to the wobbly wheel scam? Detective Tom Ferguson of the Major Offenders Swindle Unit told miamiherald.com, “Thank the individual but tell them no thank you. Call a tow truck. If you feel unsafe, call police. If I don’t feel my wheel shaking or my car starting to shake, I’m not pulling over for anyone.” Texans are advised to stay safe and follow Detective Ferguson’s advice.

Photo: Pixabay

Have you heard of this scam in your Texas town, or fallen victim to it yourself? What other scams should Texans be on the look-out for these days? Let us know so that we can spread the word and help keep Texans safe from con artists like the wobbly wheel scammers.