We haven't had this hoax for a long time. But the fact that we are receiving inquiries about it again shows us that it is time to deal with it.
A classic that first appeared in 2008 and which is available in various versions, it was probably created in English-speaking countries and was still distributed by email at the time.
It's that old, older than Facebook, but it'll definitely come back, don't worry. The last request we received via our Facebook page was on September 8, 2017
The message as worded:
[vc_message message_box_color=”grey” icon_fontawesome=”fa fa-info”]!! A warning to “everyone”!!! Currently in many places... at gas stations or in parking lots, key rings, small jewelry for the car... etc. are supposedly being sold for free. Etc. .. offered! Do not accept these items!!! There is a chip processed into it. Criminals follow you from the gas station to your home so that they can determine when you are home or not. Then, when you're away, they'll take the opportunity to break in! According to the police, this way is the work of Romanian criminals! A new type of crime. The police in Holland have warned “all” citizens about these fraudsters! Please also inform your friends and acquaintances! [/mk_info]
Background of the legend
The gas station chain Caltex (a brand of the US oil company Chevron) distributed key rings at its gas stations in South Africa in 2008 to advertise its premium diesel fuel. The first rumors soon emerged about what mysterious functions it might contain. This gave rise to the legends that emerged in the USA in 2010 and have now also made it to Germany and Austria.
Notes:
1) This content reflects the current state of affairs at the time of publication. The reproduction of individual images, screenshots, embeds or video sequences serves to discuss the topic. 2) Individual contributions were created through the use of machine assistance and were carefully checked by the Mimikama editorial team before publication. ( Reason )