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Why Is It Used?
The goal is simple: to test if a home is occupied.
If the wax stays undisturbed for several days, it may signal that:
No one is home
The property is vacant or unmonitored
The house could be a target for break-ins
These techniques are often used alongside other suspicious behaviors, such as:
Flyers or fake business cards placed on doors
Knocking to “check for interest”
Marking curbs, mailboxes, or light posts nearby
Other Strange Markings and What They May Mean
Aside from red wax, homeowners have reported other unexplained signs that could signal a potential security risk:
Chalk or marker symbols on driveways or curbs
Pebbles or sticks arranged near doors
Thread or string tied to fences or door handles
Dots, stickers, or small tags on windows or mailboxes
While some of these may seem random or innocent, they have been observed in neighborhoods before reported burglaries—especially in urban and suburban areas.
Are These Claims Backed by Police?
Some law enforcement agencies have acknowledged these signs as credible methods used by criminals. In both North America and Europe, police have issued public warnings after noticing patterns of symbols in areas with increased break-ins.
Authorities confirm that organized burglary groups may scout neighborhoods over time, using small, discreet markings to communicate which homes are most vulnerable.
What To Do If You Find Red Wax on Your Lock
1. Don’t Touch It Immediately
Take clear photos from different angles to document the wax’s position and appearance. This can help law enforcement investigate.
2. Report It to Local Authorities
Call your local non-emergency police number or reach out to a neighborhood watch group. Reporting suspicious activity helps authorities track potential threats.
3. Check Your Property Thoroughly
Inspect your home for other signs of surveillance or tampering:
Displaced window screens
Fresh chalk marks or stickers
Objects left in front of the door to test for movement
Unfamiliar flyers or cards that may be part of a tactic
4. Upgrade Your Home Security
Take steps to strengthen your home’s defenses:
Install a smart lock or reinforced deadbolt
Add a video doorbell or motion-activated lighting
Use window locks or shatterproof film
Consider a monitored security system, especially if you travel often
5. Talk to Your Neighbors
Ask around to see if others on your street have seen similar markings. Community awareness is a powerful crime deterrent.
Can It Be a False Alarm?
see continuation on next page
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