New ‘toothpick’ trick used by burglars in France can target second homes

Authorities in France are warning of a new ‘toothpick’ trick used by burglars to rob homes, after a series of cases in Ariège. 

The trick is used to easily identify second homes that may be vacant during the spring, leading to concerns that residents away from their properties could be targeted.

Four burglaries have been reported since the start of March in Saint-Jean-de-Verges (Ariège), which have all seen thieves use the method. 

Thieves place a toothpick in the lock of a gate or front door of the property, then return the next day to see if it is still there. 

If it is, the property is likely unoccupied – as can be the case with second homes, or if the owners are away on holiday – making it a prime target. 

“A distinctive feature of this method [of burglary] is the presence of one (or more) toothpicks in the lock or door frame,” said the commune’s mairie in a post on social media about the burglaries in the village.

“It is believed that this is a reconnaissance method, similar to that of leaving white sheets of paper in the mailbox or garden.” 

Second homes may be targeted

Residents of the commune who find a toothpick in their locks or near their property are asked to call the local gendarmes. 

However, the trick could be used anywhere, and people across France should remain vigilant. 

Similar to the other methods mentioned by the mairie – notably when a sheet of white paper is folded and left in a door, or when tape is placed over locks – the trick allows burglars to see if anyone has entered or left a property over a period of several days without having to watch the house regularly. 

To prevent burglars targeting your home while you are away, you can ask a neighbour to regularly visit to check for any signs, and to collect mail, water plants, etc, to make it seem as if it is occupied. 

Alternatively, you can ask the gendarmes to check on your second home during their patrols (local police will only check main homes). You can read how to sign up for the service in our article here.

Other tips on reducing the risk of your second home being burgled are available here.