Most people think burglaries happen at random, but criminals often plan their break-ins well in advance. One of the sneaky ways they do this? Secret markings left on homes and nearby objects to signal whether a house is an easy target. Security experts warn that burglars use symbols — scratches, chalk marks, or even small stickers — to communicate with each other. If you see any strange marks near your home, it’s time to take action.
What Do These Markings Mean?
These markings aren’t random scribbles. Experts have identified patterns that burglars use to mark homes. For example, an “X” or a circle may indicate an easy target, while a triangle could suggest a home with valuables inside. A cross or hash mark might mean the house is occupied or protected, and arrows or other directional symbols sometimes point toward the best entry point. While these markings can vary, the key takeaway is this: if you see something unusual, don’t ignore it.
Where Should You Look for These Symbols?
Burglars place these markings in spots that are easy for other criminals to see but often go unnoticed by homeowners. Be sure to check your front door, porch, or exterior walls for symbols scratched into bricks or drawn with chalk. Garbage cans and fences are also common places where small stickers, scratches, or chalk markings can blend in easily. Sometimes, burglars leave subtle markings near a walkway, pavement, or driveway. They may even use lamp posts and street signs to indicate a home further down the road as a target.
Image Credit: CJS Automation.
What to Do If You Find a Marking
If you notice a suspicious symbol, don’t panic—but do act quickly. Wipe away the marking as soon as possible. Burglars often check back to see if their symbols remain—removing them signals that you’re aware and watching. Let your neighbors know so they can check their properties for similar signs, as burglars usually scope out multiple homes on a street, not just one. Even if the marking seems harmless, report it to your local police department. Authorities can track patterns of activity in the area and may increase patrols.
How to Make Your Home Less Attractive to Burglars
Burglars prefer homes that appear empty, so make it harder for them by using smart lights that turn on and off at different times. Keeping a car in the driveway or asking a neighbor to park there if you’re away can also deter criminals. Bringing in your garbage quickly is another simple way to avoid giving burglars clues about an unoccupied home.
Essential Security Upgrades to Consider
According to security experts at CJS Automation, burglars look for weak locks, poor lighting, and outdated security systems. Their top recommendations include installing high-security anti-snap locks to prevent break-ins, reinforcing door and window fittings to make forced entry harder, setting up motion-activated security lights to eliminate dark entry points, and using security cameras or video doorbells to monitor unusual activity.
Stay Alert and Take Action
Taking these steps now can make a big difference. Check your home today for any suspicious markings, upgrade your security to eliminate weak points, and talk to your neighbors about anything unusual. If you spot a marking, report it to the police. A spokesperson from CJS Automation advises, “Burglars are always looking for easy targets. If they see weak locks, no security cameras, or signs that a home is unoccupied, they will move in. The best defence is to remove suspicious markings, improve your home security, and stay aware of what’s happening in your neighbourhood.”
A little vigilance now can prevent bigger problems later—so take a few minutes today to check your home and stay one step ahead of potential intruders.
