
Watch Out for Sliders in Iowa – the Gas Station Scam You Need to Know About
When you hear the term "sliders," it could be for many reasons. Maybe it's those tasty little sandwiches with the small bun and savory patty, good times. Or maybe you remember the TV show Sliders starring Jerry O'Connell that ran from 1995 to 2000, a fun watch.
Those are good things, for the most part. Unless you didn't like Sliders, then it was the worst, right? But if you did, a pretty decent watch.
It's Best to Avoid These Sliders
If you're still thinking of sliders, the good ones, put those out of your mind. We're not talking about those kind of sliders today. Instead, we're focusing on a more sinister version, the kind you definitely want to avoid.
Picture this: you're driving around Iowa, and you need gas. When you get out to pump gas, someone slides into your car and takes your purse, wallet, cell phone, or other unattended items.
Do you lock your car doors? If not, the resurgence of an old scam could be coming your way. Yup, you guessed it... sliders.
Why Do They Call This Scam "Sliders"?
The way they slide into your car while you're not looking is how it gets its name. You might be trying to pump your gas or are in the store making your payment. The sliders take advantage of you being distracted, along with the open car doors, and take your hard-earned money or valuables.

This Scam Has a Target
According to the Crime Doctor, these burglars, let's call them what they are, prey on women and unlocked vehicles at gas stations and maybe even out on the roads. They suggest:
- Always lock your doors and windows whenever you exit the car
- Develop a routine of locking car doors so it becomes habit
- Pay attention to other people and cards
- Teach your family these safety tips
Yes, Sliders Are in Iowa
I have been trying to find the post, which I thought was crazy at the time. It was just after the new year, and it was on one of the Iowa support or crime watch groups on Facebook. A user posted an account of being at a stop light in Cedar Rapids and having someone try to open the tailgate of her minivan.
The user said they couldn't get in and sped off once they realized it wasn't happening. Maybe it's not just at gas stations any longer.
Read More: Arrest Made in Iowa 40-Year-Old Cold Case
We transition from the bad to the good. We go from sliders to the beauty that is Iowa. Check out these great photos from around Iowa:
Iowans Show Off Their Most Beautiful Photos of the State
Gallery Credit: Courtlin
Palisades-Kepler State Park December 30, 2024
Gallery Credit: Sloppy Joe