How to Avoid a Laptop Theft Scam at Airport Security
If you ever take a laptop with you while traveling by air, watch out for this scam.
The Federal Aviation Authority has warned about a common scam to steal laptops at airport security. Basically, what happens is that a team of scammers (probably 2 or 3) get between you and your laptop at the metal detector at airport security. They look for people carrying laptops. One of the scammers gets in front of the mark, while one or two more wait on the other side of security. After you put your laptop down to go through the conveyor, the scammer in front of you purposely sets of the metal detector and delays while your laptop goes through the detector.
Your laptop comes out the while you are still waiting way back behind the scammer who is still delaying, emptying pockets, and probably distracting security. A scammer on the other side grabs your laptop, makes off with it, and may hand it off to a third team member to make it harder to find.
Tip: If you are traveling with a laptop or notebook computer, be very careful at security checkpoints. Wait as long as possible before putting your laptop onto the conveyor belt. And keep an eye on your laptop the entire time. If you are being delayed and can’t see your computer, don’t be afraid to speak up (politely) and tell a security person that you fear your laptop might be stolen and ask that they keep an eye on it.
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