Note: we are republishing this story which originally made the news in July 2023.

A woman is warning people not to stop if they see a stroller, car seat, or anything that looks like an abandoned baby on the side of the road, saying it could be a dangerous trap. Her post, which includes a photo of an empty stroller parked near a road, has gone viral, with thousands of people sharing it and adding their own warnings.

If you see a stroller, car seat, or any baby-related item alone in an isolated area, do not get out of your car. Stay safe,” she wrote, advising others to think twice before stopping.

The post has struck a chord with many, who are echoing her warning. “People are out there waiting to rob you, and worse things can happen too,” wrote one commenter. “Families are struggling, and some will use any tactic they can—even using kids to lure people in.”

According to her and others who commented, it’s an increasingly common tactic used by thieves to ambush good-hearted people. The “abandoned baby” scam is specifically designed to catch drivers off guard, tugging at their emotions to make them stop before the ambush.

Abandoned stroller on the side of the road at night, Photo Credit: Nancy Walsh with The Husted Team/Facebook

This isn’t the first time people have shared warnings about similar tactics, but this particular post has rapidly gained attention, with people around the world responding to the chilling message.

Some shared their own reactions and stories. “Oh my gosh, I’d be out of the car in seconds to check. Thank you for the heads up!” one mom commented. Another added, “It’s terrible because it targets those of us who want to help. But I’d just call the police—it’s not worth the risk.”

Abandoned stroller on the side of the road at night, Photo Credit: Nancy Walsh with The Husted Team/Facebook

Not everyone took it seriously, however. One woman laughed it off, saying, “That stroller was probably dumped by my husband, who after two years still can’t figure out how to fold it up.” Another joked, “It’s possible that a mom who left it because her toddler wanted to walk but refused to let her push the groceries in the empty stroller.”

Other commenters highlighted similar tactics that scammers have used before, including “dead man” scams and cries for help from women. One woman from Australia recounted a close call: “I stopped once to help a man passed out on the side of the road, and a police officer warned me that it’s often a scam. He said as a single woman, I should stay cautious.” Another chimed in, “Women have been known to do it too—pretend to scream for help to draw you in. If you see something suspicious, it’s best to call the cops and keep moving.”

Abandoned stroller on the side of the road at night, Photo Credit: Nancy Walsh with The Husted Team/Facebook

The viral warning has already been shared more than 23,000 times, as people rush to alert others about these unsettling tactics.