It’s the kind of thing you notice little. A business card attached to the door frame, a very thin leaflet at the gate or a discreet paper against the lock. Many times you take and lie out without thinking. Other times I don’t even notice that it is there. But authorities are now asking for more attention, because this seemingly harmless gesture can hide something more serious.
A discreet method for watching empty houses
The so -called “card trick” is being used by organized groups to identify houses that are temporarily unoccupied. According to the site specializing in Lifestyle Leak, the scheme has been observed in several Portuguese neighborhoods, especially in vacation time, when many families are out for several days.
The technique is simple: Someone passes, discreetly puts a paper, card or other fine object on the door, and returns two or three days after. If the object continues in the same place, it indicates that no one came in or left the house during this period. For those who observe from the outside, it is a sign that the property is empty.
How do the Burlões act
According to the same source, this strategy allows you to watch several houses at the same time without lifting suspicions. There is no need to knock on the door, nor to surround the neighborhood.
Just leave the marker and return later to confirm that it remains in place. Thus, robbers know exactly which houses they can act at least risk.
This pattern has already been identified in locations such as Almada, Sintra, Odivelas, Vila Nova de Gaia and even in more interior zones such as Santarém or Evora. In all cases, the common element is the same: small objects left subtly to test whether or not there is movement in the house.
What to do to protect yourself
PSP recommends that whenever you find something strange by the door or gate, such as a card, paper, plastic or any unual object, to remove it immediately.
If you go on vacation, ask a trustworthy neighbor or family member to go through your home regularly. Small gestures such as collecting the mail, opening blinds, or lighting lights help simulate presence.
Installing a videoport, surveillance chamber or even light sensor lights can also serve as a deterrent element. No need to invest in large alarm systems: the simple fact that there is visible technology is often sufficient to ward off invasion attempts.
Be aware of what is happening on the street
GNR also reinforces the importance of being aware of unusual movements. People who pass through the same street several times in a single day, who look carefully to the doors or who distribute little leaflets in an unusual way should raise suspicion. If you see something like this, contact the authorities.
As with, the “card trick” is being used especially during the summer months. So if you are on vacation or will be absent in the coming days, pay attention to the signs. It may just be advertising, but it can also be a silent test. In this case, preventing is the best way.
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