Iowa State University

Inside Iowa State
May 24, 1996

Airport hustlers grab laptop computers

ISU travelers should be aware of a hustle that's being employed at airport security checks to steal laptop computers. The hustle involves two people who position themselves in front of the laptop carrier. The two will stall until the "mark" puts the laptop on the conveyor belt for the metal detector. The first hustler then quickly passes through the metal detector, while the second sets off the detector and begins a slow process of emptying pockets and removing jewelry. Meanwhile, the first hustler grabs the laptop and disappears into the crowd. To protect your laptop:

  • Avoid lines to enter the metal detector.

  • Don't put your luggage and laptop on the conveyor belt until you are sure you will be the next person through the metal detector.

  • Keep your eyes on the conveyor belt and watch for your luggage and laptop to appear.

  • Watch what those in front of you pick up.

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    Revised 5/23/96