30 Signs Your House Has Been Marked By Thieves

1. You've noticed random marks on exterior walls/features

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Randomly placed markings or symbols on the exterior walls, sidewalks, or driveway could indicate a form of communication among potential burglars, either marking a target for future intrusion or conveying information about the property's vulnerabilities or inhabitants.

2. You've noticed items being left that don't belong to you

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Unfamiliar objects left near the property, such as stones, bottles, or sticks, might serve as signals or markers for potential burglars, indicating that the property has been identified as a target or that it possesses valuables worth stealing. These items could be strategically placed.

3. Unexplained chalk marks

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Unexplained chalk marks or symbols on the exterior surfaces may serve as a form of code or communication among thieves, indicating characteristics of the property such as the presence of security systems, vulnerable entry points, or valuable items inside.

4. Litter left around in specific patterns

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Litter or debris left in specific patterns around the property could be a subtle way for burglars to communicate with each other or mark potential targets. These patterns might be deliberately arranged to convey information about the property's layout, security measures, or the presence of valuable items.

5. Stickers or tags placed on mailbox/door

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Stickers or tags placed on the mailbox or door indicating potential targets might be part of a system used by burglars to identify and mark houses with valuables worth stealing or vulnerable security systems. These tags could serve as signals to other criminals or as reminders for the perpetrators themselves.

6. Areas of your fence or gate appear tampered with

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Areas of the fence or gate that appear tampered with or damaged could indicate that burglars have been scouting the property or attempting to gain access. These signs of attempted entry or reconnaissance might suggest that the property has been targeted for burglary.

7. Strange arrangements of objects in the yard

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Strange patterns or arrangements of objects in the yard or garden could be a subtle way for burglars to communicate with each other or mark potential targets. These arrangements might serve as signals to other criminals or as reminders for the perpetrators themselves, aiding in the planning and execution of future break-ins.

8. Signs of forced entry or attempts to break a lock

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Signs of forced entry or attempts to break locks on doors or windows are clear indicators that burglars have targeted the property. These signs of attempted intrusion should prompt homeowners to take immediate action to secure their home and protect their belongings.

9. Suspicious vehicles parked nearby

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Suspicious vehicles parked nearby or circling the neighborhood frequently could be conducting surveillance on potential targets or serving as getaway vehicles for burglars. These vehicles might be parked conspicuously close to the property or positioned strategically to monitor activity without arousing suspicion.

10. You've noticed unfamiliar people lurking near your property

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Unusual activity from unfamiliar individuals lingering around the property may indicate that burglars are scouting the area or preparing to commit a crime. These individuals might be casing the neighborhood for potential targets, gathering information about residents' routines and security measures.

11. There's graffiti or markings on nearby structures

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Graffiti or markings on nearby structures indicating criminal activity can serve as warnings or signals among criminal networks, potentially indicating that the area is being targeted for burglary or other illicit activities. These markings might convey information about the presence of valuables or vulnerable entry points.

12. Broken or cut wires on any security systems

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Broken or cut wires on security systems or outdoor lighting suggest that burglars have attempted to disable these measures to facilitate their entry into the property undetected. This deliberate sabotage of security measures indicates that the property has been targeted for burglary.

13. Missing or damaged security cameras/motion sensor lights

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Missing or damaged security cameras or motion sensor lights indicate that burglars have attempted to disable or evade surveillance measures to avoid detection while targeting the property. This sabotage of security equipment suggests that the property has been identified as a potential target.

14. A sudden increase in door salesmen

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A sudden increase in solicitors or salespeople targeting the house could be a tactic used by burglars to gather information about the property and its occupants, posing as legitimate individuals while conducting reconnaissance for potential targets.

15. Notices left on doors

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Notices left on doors indicating potential vulnerabilities or targets might be used by burglars to communicate with each other or mark properties that are likely to be targeted for burglary. These notices could contain information about the property's security measures, valuables, or occupants.

16. Your neighbors have reported suspicious activity

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Reports from neighbors of suspicious behavior or unfamiliar visitors suggest that the property may have attracted the attention of burglars or other criminal elements. These reports may indicate that the neighborhood is being targeted for burglary or other illicit activities.

17. Strange packages or items have been left on your doorstep

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Strange packages or items left on the doorstep without explanation could be used by burglars to gather information about the property and its occupants, posing as deliveries or gifts while conducting reconnaissance for potential targets.

18. You've noticed scratches on outside windowsills/doors

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Discreet markings or scratches on doors or windowsills may serve as signals or codes used by burglars to communicate with each other or mark potential targets. These markings could convey information about the property's security measures, vulnerabilities, or valuables.

19. You've seen footprints leading to/from the property

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Fresh footprints leading to or away from the property suggest that burglars may have recently visited the area, potentially conducting reconnaissance or attempting to gain access to the property. These footprints may indicate that the property has been targeted for burglary.

20. You've found tools or equipment left around, like crowbars

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Tools or equipment left behind that could be used for burglary, such as crowbars, screwdrivers, or wire cutters, suggest that burglars may have attempted to gain access to the property or disable security measures. These abandoned tools may indicate that the property has been targeted.

21. You've noticed pry marks around doorways

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Signs of attempted pry marks or scratches around door frames or windows indicate that burglars may have attempted to force entry into the property. These signs of forced entry suggest that the property has been targeted for burglary, prompting homeowners to reinforce their doors and windows.

22. You've noticed landscaping changes in your garden

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Unexplained changes in landscaping or gardening around the property, such as newly planted shrubs or bushes, could be a tactic used by burglars to conceal their activities or gain access to the property undetected.

23. Your outdoor furniture or decorations have been recently disturbed

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Signs of recent disturbances in outdoor furniture or decorations suggest that burglars may have been scouting the area or attempting to gain access to the property. These signs of activity may indicate that the property has been targeted for burglary, prompting homeowners to take immediate action to secure their home.

24. You've heard strange noises

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Unusual noises coming from the property at odd hours, such as banging, scraping, or clicking sounds, could indicate that burglars may be attempting to gain access to the property or disable security measures. These noises may be the result of attempted break-ins or reconnaissance activities.

25. There have been 'false alarms' with your security system

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Instances of false alarms triggered by security systems suggest that burglars may have attempted to gain access to the property or disable security measures. These false alarms may indicate that the property has been targeted for burglary, prompting homeowners to verify the integrity of their security systems.

26. There have been reports of suspicious activity in the neighborhood

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Reports of theft or suspicious activity in the neighborhood suggest that the property may have attracted the attention of burglars or other criminal elements. These reports may indicate that the neighborhood is being targeted for burglary or other illicit activities, prompting residents to remain vigilant.

27. You've noticed unexplained holes in fences that weren't there before

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Unexplained holes or openings in fences or barriers around the property could be a tactic used by burglars to gain access to the property undetected. These openings may indicate that the property has been targeted for burglary, prompting homeowners to repair and reinforce their fences.

28. You've noticed objects high up, like on the roof or in nearby tree branches

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Objects left on the roof or in trees around the property could be used by burglars to gain access to the property or observe it from a vantage point. These objects may indicate that the property has been targeted for burglary, prompting homeowners to remain vigilant.

29. Suspicious markings on utility boxes or meters

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Suspicious markings on utility boxes or meters may serve as signals or codes used by burglars to communicate with each other or mark potential targets. These markings could convey information about the property's security measures, vulnerabilities, or valuables.

30. There has been deliberate vandalism

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Vandalism or damage to property that seems targeted or deliberate may indicate that the property has been identified as a potential target for burglary. This vandalism or damage may be intended to disable security measures, gain access to the property, or intimidate the occupants.

31. Signs of forced entry into sheds or garages

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Signs of forced entry into sheds, garages, or other outbuildings suggest that burglars may have attempted to gain access to the property or steal valuable items stored on the premises. These signs of forced entry may indicate that the property has been targeted for burglary.

32. There seems to have been tampering with outside electrical outlets

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Prying or tampering with outdoor electrical outlets or fixtures could indicate that burglars may have attempted to disable security measures or gain access to the property. This tampering may be intended to disable outdoor lighting or surveillance cameras.

33. You've had things go missing from outside, like bikes or tools

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Instances of missing or tampered-with personal belongings left outside, such as bicycles, garden tools, or outdoor furniture, suggest that burglars may have targeted the property for theft. These missing items may have been stolen by opportunistic thieves.

34. You've noticed markings on vehicles parked nearby

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Unexplained markings or scratches on vehicles parked near the house may indicate that burglars have been scouting the area or attempting to gain access to the property. These markings may be used to identify potential targets or convey information about the property's security measures.

35. Your pets seem to be on edge or behaving differently

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Changes in behavior from pets indicating discomfort or agitation may indicate that burglars have been lurking around the property or attempting to gain access to the premises. These changes in behavior may be the result of unfamiliar scents or noises associated with burglars or reconnaissance activities.

36. Your mail has been disrupted or packages have been going missing

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Unexplained disruptions to mail delivery or packages going missing may indicate that burglars have been targeting the property for theft. These disruptions may be the result of thieves stealing mail or packages from mailboxes or porches.

37. Outside locks appear to have been tampered with

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Instances of tampering with locks or security measures on gates suggest that burglars may have attempted to gain access to the property or disable security measures. This tampering may be intended to facilitate a burglary or reconnaissance activities.

38. Weird rocks or piles of bricks have been left near your property

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Unexplained piles of rocks or bricks left near the property could be used by burglars to gain access to the property or disable security measures. These piles of rocks or bricks may be intended to prop open gates or doors, or to block surveillance cameras or motion sensors.

39. Signs of recent digging in the yard

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Signs of recent digging or disturbances in the yard or garden suggest that burglars may have been attempting to gain access to the property or bury stolen items. These signs of activity may indicate that the property has been targeted for burglary or reconnaissance activities.

40. Missing or damaged outdoor furniture

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Instances of missing or damaged outdoor furniture or equipment may indicate that burglars have targeted the property for theft. These missing or damaged items may have been stolen or vandalized by opportunistic thieves or as part of a larger burglary scheme.

41. You've noticed strange smells coming from the vents

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Strange odors emanating from vents or openings in the property could indicate that burglars may have attempted to gain access to the property or disable security measures. These odors may be the result of attempts to disable security systems, gain entry through ventilation systems, or conceal evidence of a burglary.

42. There have been signs of attempted entry through the basement or cellar

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Signs of attempted entry through basement windows or cellar doors suggest that burglars may have targeted the property for theft. These signs of forced entry may indicate that burglars have attempted to gain access to the property through vulnerable entry points.

43. You've noticed dust or dirt on window ledges has been disturbed

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Unexplained disturbances in dust or dirt on windowsills or ledges may indicate that burglars have been attempting to gain access to the property or disable security measures. These disturbances may be the result of attempts to pry open windows, disable window locks, or conceal evidence of a burglary.

44. Your security signs have been tampered with

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Instances of missing or tampered-with security signage may indicate that burglars have been attempting to gain access to the property or disable security measures. These missing or damaged signs may be the result of attempts to confuse or deter homeowners from protecting their property.

45. You've found strange symbols carved into your fence or posts

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Strange markings or symbols carved into wooden fences or posts may serve as signals or codes used by burglars to communicate with each other or mark potential targets. These markings could convey information about the property's security measures.

46. Suspicious vehicles have been parked nearby for a long time without moving

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Reports of suspicious vehicles parked nearby for extended periods suggest that burglars may be conducting surveillance on potential targets or preparing to commit a crime. These vehicles may be parked conspicuously close to the property or positioned strategically to monitor activity without arousing suspicion.

47. There looks to be attempted entry through pet doors

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Instances of attempted entry through dog or pet doors suggest that burglars may have targeted the property for theft. These attempts to gain access to the property through vulnerable entry points, such as dog or pet doors, may indicate that burglars have been scouting the area.

48. Unexplained scratches on exterior walls

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Unexplained scratches or marks on the exterior walls or doors may indicate that burglars have been attempting to gain access to the property or disable security measures. These scratches or marks may be the result of attempts to pry open doors or disable locks.

49. Recent attempts to disable your security system

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Signs of recent attempts to disable or tamper with security systems suggest that burglars may have targeted the property for theft. These signs of attempted sabotage may indicate that burglars have been attempting to disable security cameras, motion sensors, or alarms to gain entry to the property undetected.

50. Outdoor lighting fixtures have gone missing

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Instances of missing or tampered-with outdoor lighting fixtures suggest that burglars may have targeted the property for theft. These missing or damaged fixtures may be the result of attempts to disable outdoor lighting to conceal criminal activity or gain entry to the property undetected.