Ever read of—or discover mid-Tik-Tok-scroll—those chilling stories where people find hidden doorways or entrances in their homes? You can guess that what they find is usually not good, and it’s part of a bigger issue that we need to talk about. The threat in question is known as phrogging. Here’s everything you need to know.

What is Phrogging?

Simply put, phrogging refers to the act of squatting in someone else’s home while they are away—or existing alongside the home’s rightful inhabitants in secret, without the homeowner’s knowledge or consent. This practice crosses new lines between trespassing and a home invasion. It sounds creepy and quite honestly, terrifying. But this isn’t fiction out of a creepypasta, a la Slenderman. It’s actually more common than you’d hope.

The Modus Operandi of Phroggers

To truly understand the threat of phrogging, we need to examine the MO of those who engage in this illegal and invasive activity. Phroggers typically gain access to a home through various means, such as through unlocked doors or windows. Once inside, they may take up residence temporarily, using the facilities, consuming resources, and potentially engaging in illegal activities.

The Digital Aspect: How Phrogging Exploits Technology

What makes phrogging particularly concerning in today’s context is its reliance on technology. Perpetrators often use digital tools and knowledge to identify homes that are temporarily unoccupied. Here’s a closer look at how they do it.

Social Media Reconnaissance

In the age of oversharing on social media, phroggers have found a goldmine of information. They scour platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for clues about homeowners’ whereabouts. Posting vacation photos, check-ins at faraway locations, or even just mentioning extended absences can inadvertently signal to potential phroggers that a home is empty and vulnerable.

Keyless Entry Vulnerabilities

With the proliferation of smart locks and home automation systems, phroggers can exploit vulnerabilities in these technologies to gain unauthorized access to homes. These high-tech security systems, while convenient, are not immune to hacking attempts. So, homeowners should regularly update and patch their home automation devices to prevent vulnerabilities that could be exploited by phroggers.

Neighborly Deception

In some cases, phroggers go to great lengths to deceive homeowners and neighbors. They may pose as neighbors, delivery personnel, or service workers to gain access, using social engineering tactics to deceive unsuspecting individuals. This level of cunning and manipulation makes it even more challenging to detect and prevent phrogging.

The Risks You Face

You may have gathered that this is a nightmarish risk to your personal safety. But there’s more to it, because if the thought of someone else living in your home without your knowledge for days, let alone weeks, months or years doesn’t serve as a nightmare and make you check and double-check that every point of entry in your home is locked, this will.

Property Damage

Phroggers might not have the same level of care for your property as you do. Their presence can lead to property damage, theft, or vandalism. Valuable possessions could be damaged or stolen, and repairs might be necessary.

Health and Safety Hazards

Phroggers often live in a home without proper maintenance, potentially leading to health and safety hazards. They may engage in risky behaviors, such as cooking without safety precautions, causing fires or gas leaks.

Identity Theft

Intruders who gain access to your home may also have access to personal documents, mail, or electronic devices. This opens the door to identity theft, as they can steal sensitive information like bank statements, Social Security numbers, or credit card details.

Squatter’s Rights

In some jurisdictions, squatters who occupy a property for an extended period without being detected may gain legal rights to the property. While unlikely, this is a legal concept that’s very real and known as adverse possession, and it can lead to a complicated legal battle to regain ownership of your home.

Protecting Your Home from Phrogging

Freaked out? Same. Explore proactive steps you can take to safeguard your home and family.

Strengthen Security Measures

Invest in robust locks, alarms, and surveillance systems to deter potential phroggers. High-quality deadbolt locks and smart security cameras can significantly enhance your home’s security.

Social Media Caution

A word of caution to homeowners—maybe don’t announce on social media that you’re going on a vacation, and wait until after to post those gram-worthy photos. If you just can’t resist, review your privacy settings to limit who can see your posts, so that only trusted friends and family are privy to your whereabouts.

Neighbors as Allies

Establish a good rapport with your neighbors and encourage them to report any suspicious activity. Mutual vigilance can go a long way in preventing phrogging incidents.