The penny in your door handle is a well-known street scam with a few possible intentions — none of them good. Do not ignore it. Here’s what it likely means and what you should do:
Likely Intentions
-
Distraction/Theft Setup: The odd placement is meant to confuse and distract you. While you’re focused on removing the penny, an accomplice might approach from the other side to steal something from your car or even attempt a carjacking.
-
Marking the Vehicle: Criminals sometimes place an item (a sticker, zip-tie, coin, etc.) to “mark” a car for a later crime (like theft of the vehicle or its contents). It signals to other criminals that the car is a target, the owner is away, or the area is clear.
-
Testing Occupancy: If you drive away with the penny still there, they know you didn’t notice a small detail, suggesting you might be inattentive. If you remove it later, they might see the penny gone and know you returned, which helps them track patterns.
Immediate Action Steps
-
Do Not Remove It Immediately: Before touching it, quickly scan your surroundings. Look for anyone loitering, sitting in a nearby car, or watching you.
-
Secure Yourself & Belongings: Before dealing with the penny, ensure your doors are locked (use your key fob). If you have passengers, have them stay alert.
-
Check the Rest of Your Car: Before driving, do a quick walk-around. Look for anything else out of place (on the windshield, under wipers, by the tires). Check the back seat before getting in.
-
Drive to a Safe, Public Location: If you feel uneasy, get in, lock the doors, and drive to a well-lit, populated area like a gas station or shopping center before removing the penny.
-
Report It: If this happened in a store parking lot, inform security. While police may not be able to do much for a single incident, reporting it helps them track patterns in the area.
Bottom Line
This is almost certainly a tactic used by criminals. Your awareness of it being “strange” is your best defense. Trust your gut, prioritize your safety, and be extra vigilant for the next few days regarding your car and your surroundings.