Imagine stepping out of your house one morning and noticing something unusual—red wax lodged in your front door’s keyhole. You don’t have anything on your keys that could explain it, yet when you pull the key out, it has traces of red wax. It’s unsettling, right? If you’ve encountered something like this, it’s not just a random occurrence—it might actually be a warning sign that someone is eyeing your home.

Could This Be a Squatter or Burglar’s Strategy?

Finding red wax in your lock might seem like an odd and harmless incident, but it could actually indicate something more sinister. Security experts warn that squatters or burglars sometimes use this tactic to check if a property is actively used. It’s a sneaky method they use to figure out if anyone is living there without drawing too much attention.

How Does This Technique Work?

The concept is surprisingly straightforward. Someone might insert red wax, tape, or another substance into your door lock. If the wax is gone after a day or two, they know someone’s been using the door, meaning the house is occupied. However, if it remains undisturbed, that suggests no one has been home, potentially marking it as an easy target for burglars or squatters.

This trick allows criminals to assess whether a house is vacant without attempting a break-in, minimizing the risk of getting caught in the act.

Why Should You Be Concerned?

If you ever find red wax or any other unusual substance on your door, it’s essential not to brush it off. This could mean someone is checking your home to see if it’s a good target for a break-in. It’s better to be cautious and proactive to protect your home and loved ones.

What Should You Do If You Discover Wax in Your Lock?

If you notice wax or something odd in your door lock, here are steps you can take to safeguard your property:

1. Document the Evidence: Take clear photos of the wax or substance in the lock. This can be crucial if you decide to involve the authorities.
2. Notify Local Law Enforcement: Even if you don’t see any other suspicious signs, informing the police can alert them to potential criminal activity in your neighborhood. They might increase patrols to deter further incidents.
3. Boost Your Home Security: Consider adding more security measures, like upgrading your locks, installing a doorbell camera, or setting up motion-activated lights. These precautions can deter potential intruders.
4. Alert Your Neighbors: If someone is targeting your home, there’s a chance they might also be targeting others nearby. Letting your neighbors know what you’ve found can help the entire community stay vigilant.

Other Tactics Criminals May Use to Test a Home’s Security

While the red wax trick is one tactic, it’s certainly not the only one. Be aware of other signs that your home might be targeted:

• Tape or Stickers on Locks: Small pieces of tape over the keyhole or door seams can reveal if a door is being used.
• Chalk Marks on Walls or Mailboxes: Sometimes, burglars use chalk symbols to identify homes that seem like easy targets.
• Odd Objects Near Your Door: Finding items like stones, bottles, or even random pieces of string near your entrance might be another way for someone to track if you’ve been around.

Prevention: The Best Defense Against Potential Break-Ins

The best way to protect your home is to make it look occupied, even if you’re away. Here are some simple yet effective ways to boost your home’s security:

• Timed Lighting: Use timers on lights to make it appear as though someone is home, especially if you’re going on vacation.
• Keep Entrances Well-Lit: Homes that are well-lit are less attractive to burglars. Motion-sensor lights can be particularly effective.
• Smart Cameras and Doorbells: Visible security cameras and smart doorbells can not only capture evidence but also deter anyone from even attempting a break-in.

The Bottom Line: Don’t Ignore Unusual Signs

If you ever notice red wax in your door lock, take it seriously. It could be a subtle sign that someone is scoping out your property to see if it’s empty. By staying alert, taking preventative steps, and notifying the authorities, you can protect your home and family. Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it’s always better to take action than to ignore it.