You pull into your driveway after a long day.
You grab your bag.
You walk to the front door.
And then you see it.
A small, waxy red dot — like dried candle wax — smeared on your door lock or doorknob.
At first glance, it looks like trash.
Maybe a kid’s art project gone wrong.
Or a drip from a red marker.
But your gut tightens.
Because deep down, you know — this doesn’t belong.
And you’re right.
That red wax might not be an accident.
It could be a silent signal — left by someone who’s watching.
Let’s explore what red wax on your house lock could mean — and what you should do the moment you see it.
🔍 The Disturbing Truth: It Might Be a Burglary Marker
In recent years, law enforcement and neighborhood watch groups have reported a disturbing trend:
Criminals are using colored wax, gum, tape, or string to mark homes they’ve targeted.
The red wax on your lock isn’t random.
It’s a covert signal — possibly meaning:
“This house has been cased.”
“No security system.”
“Easy entry point.”
Or even: “Residents are away.”
It’s like a silent flag for other thieves — a way to communicate without words.
And the worst part?
It’s designed to go unnoticed.
To most people, it looks like litter.
To the criminal network, it’s a green light.
🧠 How This Tactic Works – The Psychology of the Mark