Beware the Conveyer Belt Scam

Be careful not to send anything through the gate security conveyer belt until it's actually your turn to walk through. Why? Because the conveyer belt scam is the hottest new way to steal your stuff at the airport. Beware! The bad guys are especially after your laptop computers, purses and other small electronic equipment. Here's how it works.

Two con-men or women (let's be fair) scan the airport for victims carrying laptop computers or other expensive hand-held equipment. They see you. You're approaching security, where you have to send your carry-on through the x-ray conveyer belt. The two scam artists nonchalantly walk ahead of you, making sure they end up right in front of you at security. You notice nothing unusual.

The first guy walks through without a problem. The second guy walks up to the gate, waits a few seconds, just enough time for you to put your laptop on the conveyer belt, then he walks through. You guessed it. All the bells and whistles go off, delaying him while your laptop is riding on the conveyer belt to the other side. The second con-person takes his time, empties out his pockets then walks through, all is well. By the time you go through, though, the first person already has made a clean getaway with your laptop or personal luggage.

This scam is increasing in popularity, and thieves have done a tremendous business with this con. Don't be their next victim.