Home security is something most of us take seriously, whether it involves installing cameras, having guard dogs, or simply being cautious about who we open the door to.
However, criminals are always finding ways to bypass our precautions, and one particularly unsettling tactic that has recently surfaced involves something as simple as a rubber band on your door handle. This new and devious method is being used to exploit unsuspecting homeowners, allowing criminals to quickly gain entry into homes.
This technique first came to light in 2016 when Texas resident Kim Fleming Cernigliaro shared her chilling experience on Facebook. She described hearing persistent, almost pounding knocks on her door while she was home alone. Trusting her instincts, she didn’t open the door.
When she finally stepped outside, she noticed a rubber band stretched over her doorknob—a disturbing sign that someone had attempted to break in.
But how does this trick work? The rubber band is wrapped tightly around the outside door handle. When the door is unlocked, the band holds the latch open, allowing the intruder to barge in without giving the homeowner time to react. “As soon as you unlatch the door, they do not wait for you to turn the knob. They can bust in on you,” Kim explained in her post (Newsner English)(Relay Hero).
Kim’s quick thinking likely saved her from a dangerous encounter, but her story serves as a crucial warning for others. The local sheriff confirmed this technique was gaining traction in the area, with more reports of similar incidents. This makes it essential for everyone to remain vigilant, especially when receiving unexpected knocks on the door.
So, what should you do if you find a rubber band on your door? First and foremost, don’t touch it. Immediately call the police and report the situation. It’s also advisable to avoid opening the door if you’re not expecting visitors, and instead use a peephole or security camera to assess the situation. Many experts recommend investing in a home security system, keeping guard dogs, or even having self-defense tools like a gun readily available, though only if you are trained and legally permitted to use one(Relay Hero) (Totally The Bomb).
While this might sound like an extreme or isolated case, the frequency of these incidents shows that it’s more common than you might think. Criminals are always adapting, and homeowners need to be equally cautious. The rubber band trick is just one of many evolving tactics, but staying informed about such methods can help you protect your home and family.
This story is not just about a rubber band; it’s a reminder of the importance of home security. Keep your doors locked, don’t open them for strangers, and report suspicious activity immediately. Kim’s experience, although terrifying, has sparked awareness, encouraging people to take extra precautions to safeguard their homes (Gibsons News).
Key Takeaways for Homeowners:
- If you spot a rubber band on your door, it could be a break-in attempt. Call the police immediately.
- Never open your door to strangers, especially if something feels off.
- Install security cameras and consider other defensive measures to protect your home.
In conclusion, this seemingly harmless object—a rubber band—can be used in frightening ways by criminals. By staying alert and proactive, you can help prevent a potentially dangerous situation from unfolding. Share this warning with others to spread awareness and keep your neighborhood safe.