It’s a scenario that plays out in quiet suburban neighborhoods every day. You’re working in your garden or getting out of your car when a stranger approaches you. They are friendly, polite, and they have a plausible story: they’re looking for a friend’s house, they’ve taken a wrong turn, or their phone’s GPS has died. Your natural instinct is to be a good neighbor and help them. But this seemingly innocent interaction could be something much more sinister. Law enforcement officials warn that this is a common tactic used by burglars and other criminals to gather information. The reason why strangers pretend to be lost is often a calculated move to assess your home and your vulnerability.
Here’s a breakdown of what they are really looking for when they approach you.
