Beware of the abandoned stroller scam— mother issues warning

A mother’s heartfelt warning has gone viral on social media, alerting people to a new scam that targets good Samaritans. The post, which includes a photo of an abandoned stroller by the roadside, urges people not to stop and investigate, as it could be a trap.

The concerned mother shared her warning on Facebook, advising: “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.” Her post quickly gained traction, resonating with thousands who shared and commented on it.

Many people responded to the post with their own fears and experiences. One person commented, “Yes, people lie in wait. At best they rob you, at worst they bash you too.” Another mentioned, “Families are struggling, some of them will use kids as bait.”

This scam, where criminals use an abandoned stroller to lure in helpful strangers, is not entirely new but has gained renewed attention. When someone stops to check on the stroller, the thieves strike, often leading to robbery or physical harm. One commenter shared, “OMG – I would be out of the car so fast to check, thanks for the warning. Another added, “This is so cruel because they are targeting the best of us.”

Many advised against stopping and suggested calling the authorities instead. “I would just call the police to have a look at it. It sounds harsh but it isn’t worth the trouble.” one person noted. Others emphasized staying vigilant and contacting law enforcement rather than getting out of the car.

While most responses were serious, some found humor in the situation. One person joked, “his stroller was probably dumped by my husband who after two years still can’t workout how to fold it for the boot.” Another said, “A mum had to dump it cos 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.”

This ‘abandoned baby’ scam is part of a broader trend of deceptive practices targeting Good Samaritans. Other similar scams include a person pretending to be passed out on the roadside or individuals screaming for help only to ambush those who come to assist.

People shared their own encounters with such scams. One person recalled, “ pulled over to help a man passed out on the side of the road once. The police officer yelled at me and said it is often a scam and as a single woman I should be more careful.” Another mentioned, “I have heard of women screaming for help only to do the same thing. Just call the cops and move on.”

The viral post, shared over 23,000 times, highlights the importance of staying cautious and safe. While the instinct to help is noble, prioritizing personal safety and relying on authorities to handle suspicious situations is crucial. In a world with increasingly sophisticated scams, being aware and cautious can make all the difference. If you ever encounter an abandoned baby or any other suspicious scenario, remember to stay safe, call the police, and avoid putting yourself in danger.