# Motorist distraction scams in Italy

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/motorist-distraction-scams-in-italy
> Updated: 2026-09-26T14:00:31.000Z. Sources: 15. Developments: 2.

Reports indicate various distraction-based scams targeting motorists in Italy.

In northern Rome, criminals have been using a tactic involving a 50-euro note, potentially counterfeit, placed under windshield wipers in busy parking lots. This distraction prompts drivers to exit their vehicles, allowing accomplices to steal valuables or, if the engine is running, the entire vehicle. Another variation involves placing objects in wheel wells to create noise and force drivers to stop.

On the A14 motorway near Vasto Sud, a different scam was reported where an individual allegedly forced a driver to pull over by claiming a side mirror had been damaged during an overtaking maneuver. The suspect demanded 150 euros through aggressive behavior and threats of police involvement, but the attempt was thwarted by highway police intervention.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-26: Vasto Sud police thwart highway mirror scam

Police in Italy thwarted a mirror scam on the A14 motorway near Vasto Sud, where a 25-year-old man attempted to extort 150 euros from a driver by claiming vehicle damage.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/vasto-sud-police-thwart-highway-mirror-scam

### 2026-09-06: Italy car theft scam uses 50-euro notes to distract drivers

Criminals in Italy, especially near Rome, are using a new scam where a 50-euro note is placed under windshield wipers to distract drivers and steal valuables or entire vehicles from parking lots.

13 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italy-theft-scam-targets-drivers-with-50-euro-note-lure

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Cite as: Motorist distraction scams in Italy. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/motorist-distraction-scams-in-italy