This morning, I noticed something odd while locking up: there was red wax in the keyhole of my front door. I have nothing on my keys that could cause this, but there was some wax on the tip of my key when I pulled it out. Now, I’m feeling a bit uneasy. Could someone have tampered with my lock last night? Any ideas about what this might mean?

The Possible Explanation: A Squatter or Burglar’s Tactic

Finding red wax in your keyhole might seem strange, but it could be a serious sign. According to many security experts, this is a method sometimes used by squatters or burglars to determine which houses are actively being used. It’s a way for them to gauge if a home is empty or occupied without drawing attention to themselves.

How Does This Work?

The method is surprisingly simple. The person will place red wax or some other type of marker in the keyhole of your lock. If someone in the house uses their key and removes the wax, it indicates that the home is occupied. On the other hand, if the wax remains untouched for a period of time, it suggests that the house might be empty—potentially making it a target.

This tactic is often employed by individuals looking to break into homes or squat in unoccupied properties. It’s an easy way for them to gather information without actually attempting a break-in, minimizing their risk of getting caught.

Why Should You Take This Seriously?

If you find red wax or any other unusual substance in your door lock, it’s important to take it seriously. It could mean that someone has been checking your home, possibly with the intention of burglarizing it or trying to squat. It’s better to be cautious in situations like this to protect your home and family.

What To Do If You Find Wax in Your Lock:

1. Document the Evidence: Take pictures of the wax or substance for your records. This could be helpful if you need to report the situation to the authorities later.
2. Notify the Police: It’s a good idea to contact local law enforcement to let them know what you found. Even if nothing else seems out of place, they may want to keep an eye on your neighborhood for any suspicious activity.
3. Install Additional Security: Consider adding extra security measures, such as a doorbell camera, motion lights, or even upgrading your locks. Making your home harder to access will deter potential intruders.
4. Talk to Your Neighbors: If someone is targeting your home, it’s possible that they are also targeting others in your neighborhood. Letting your neighbors know about your experience can help everyone stay vigilant and look out for each other.

Recognizing Other Signs of Targeting

While red wax is one example of how criminals may try to mark or test a home, it’s not the only tactic used. Here are some other things to watch out for:

• Tape on Door Locks: Small pieces of tape or stickers may be placed over keyholes or door seams to see if they remain undisturbed.
• Chalk Marks on Walls or Mailboxes: Sometimes, burglars or scammers use chalk to mark homes that are seen as easy targets.
• Strange Objects Left Near Your Door: If you notice random items, such as bottles or stones, placed near your door or in your yard, they could be markers used by someone to track activity.

Prevention is Key

In situations like this, prevention is always the best approach. Making your home appear occupied is one of the most effective deterrents against burglary. Here are some easy steps you can take to improve the security of your home:

• Install Timed Lighting: If you’re going away, use timers for your lights to make it look like someone is home.
• Keep Entryways Well-Lit: Burglars tend to avoid homes with good lighting. Install motion-activated lights around entrances to deter anyone from getting too close.
• Use Smart Cameras and Doorbells: Cameras are not only great for capturing evidence, but they can also be a visual deterrent to anyone considering targeting your home.

Conclusion: Take Action if You Notice Something Strange

Finding red wax in your keyhole is not something to ignore. It could be a sign that someone is trying to determine if your home is empty, which means they might have bad intentions. By staying vigilant, notifying the authorities, and taking simple preventative measures, you can help keep your home and family safe. Always trust your instincts—if something feels off, it’s better to take action sooner rather than later.