Imagine waking up one morning, stepping outside, and noticing something odd—red wax in your front door’s keyhole. There’s no logical explanation; your keys don’t have any wax, yet the residue is clearly there when you pull the key out. Sound alarming? It should. If this has ever happened to you, it’s not something to dismiss. This strange occurrence might be more than just an oddity—it could be a subtle sign that someone is watching your home.

Could This Be a Squatter’s or Burglar’s Method?

Discovering red wax in your lock might seem like a bizarre and harmless event, but security experts warn it could be a calculated move by squatters or burglars. This tactic is often used to determine whether a property is currently occupied. It’s a clever but disconcerting way for criminals to gather information without being obvious.

How Does This Method Work?

The process is simpler than you might think. A potential intruder applies red wax, tape, or another substance into your lock. Then, they wait. If the substance is gone after a day or two, they can deduce that someone is actively using the door, indicating the house is occupied. Conversely, if the wax remains undisturbed, they may assume the property is vacant, making it a potential target.

This trick enables criminals to assess a home’s status without breaking in, reducing their chances of being caught.

Why You Should Take This Seriously

Finding red wax or any unusual substance in your lock is not something to ignore. It’s a potential red flag signaling that someone is testing your home’s security. Whether you live in a bustling neighborhood or a quiet area, being proactive about your safety is always the best approach.

What To Do If You Discover Wax in Your Door Lock

If you notice red wax or anything else peculiar on your lock, follow these steps to protect yourself and your property:

1. Document the Evidence: Take clear photos of the substance in your lock. These can be crucial if you need to report the incident to authorities or an insurance company.
2. Contact Local Law Enforcement: Even if you haven’t observed any other suspicious activity, inform the police. They can monitor the area more closely and deter potential criminals.
3. Upgrade Your Home Security: Consider enhancing your home’s defenses. Install motion-sensor lights, upgrade your locks to more secure models, or add a smart doorbell with a camera.
4. Notify Your Neighbors: If someone is testing your home, they might be scouting the entire area. Informing your neighbors allows everyone to stay vigilant and work together to prevent crime.

Other Warning Signs That Criminals May Use

While the red wax trick is one tactic, burglars and squatters have other methods for testing whether a home is occupied. Here are a few additional warning signs to watch out for:

• Tape or Stickers on Locks: Small pieces of tape over a keyhole or door seam can indicate whether the door has been opened.
• Chalk Marks on Walls or Mailboxes: Some burglars use coded symbols drawn in chalk to mark homes that look like easy targets.
• Unfamiliar Objects Near Your Door: Items like stones, bottles, or random objects might be left to see if they’re moved—a subtle indication of activity.

Being aware of these tactics can help you identify and address potential threats before they escalate.

Prevention: The Key to Home Security

The best way to protect your home is to make it appear occupied, even when it isn’t. Here are some simple yet effective measures to deter potential intruders:

• Use Timers on Lights: Program indoor and outdoor lights to turn on and off at various times, creating the illusion that someone is home.
• Keep Entrances Well-Lit: A well-lit exterior, especially around doors and windows, is less appealing to burglars. Motion-sensor lights are especially useful.
• Install Smart Security Cameras: Cameras and doorbells with recording features can capture suspicious activity and serve as a visual deterrent for criminals.

The Bottom Line: Don’t Ignore Unusual Signs

Red wax in your door lock might seem trivial, but it could be a subtle message from someone with bad intentions. Staying alert and taking action is crucial to protecting your home and family. Trust your instincts—if something feels out of the ordinary, it’s better to address it than to dismiss it. Document the evidence, inform local authorities, and enhance your security measures. Your proactive steps could make all the difference in keeping your home safe.

By staying vigilant, you’re not only safeguarding your property but also contributing to the overall safety of your community.