# Bandit Towing Scams Target California Drivers

> California drivers face illegal bandit towing scams with ransom-like fees.
- Title: Bandit Towing Scams Target California Drivers · Jalopnik
- Summary: California drivers face illegal bandit towing scams with ransom-like fees. California drivers are targeted by illegal bandit towing companies that use fake…
- Keywords: bandit towing, california, los angeles police, lincoln towing service, national insurance crime bureau, towing scams, Jalopnik
- Source: Jalopnik — https://jalopnik.com/2314973/california-bandit-tow-truck-scam-wrecks
- Author: Charles Krome
- Published: 2026-11-14T10:25:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: bandit towing, california, los angeles police, lincoln towing service, national insurance crime bureau, towing scams, cars, culture
## Bandit Towing Scams
Bandit towing companies prey on accident victims with unsolicited visits and high-pressure tactics.
## Los Angeles Scam Case
Los Angeles police found 145 illegally impounded cars in a bandit towing scam involving fake witnesses and insurance calls.
## National Scam Surge
Predatory towing claims jumped 89% nationwide from 2022 to 2024 according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau.
## Lincoln Park Pirates
Lincoln Towing Service, known as the Lincoln Park Pirates, inspired a 1972 folk song.
## How to Avoid Scams
Only work with towing companies you contacted yourself and confirm the truck is from the service you requested.

> if you didn't request the tow, say no
## Payment Safety
Legitimate towing companies accept traceable payment methods like checks and credit cards, not Venmo or similar digital services.
## Key takeaway

California drivers are targeted by illegal bandit towing companies that use fake insurance calls to extort ransom fees.