Predatory towing refers to any illegal or unethical practice by towing companies to make money by towing a vehicle by unfair means or without following due process. This is often done with the participation of property owners to get a vehicle towed away as quickly as possible. Towing companies often employ spotters who observe parking lots and inform the towing company of a vehicle parked where it shouldn’t be. Satellite or patrol towing is another unfair practice where, upon a tip from a spotter, a tow truck tows away a vehicle parked illegally on private property. Different state laws include protections for victims of predatory towing, who may also file complaints with the consumer affairs department.