With housing costs and crime on the rise, homeowners across the U.S. are facing new security challenges. Among the most unsettling is a disturbing trend known as phrogging—a crime that sounds like something straight out of a thriller movie.

What Is Phrogging?

“Phrogging” (pronounced like “frogging”) is when someone secretly lives inside another person’s home without their knowledge. The name comes from “leapfrog,” describing how intruders hop from place to place, often hiding in basements, attics, crawlspaces, or unused rooms.

Unlike squatters, who usually occupy abandoned homes, phroggers may target vacation properties or even primary residences left empty while the owners are away. Imagine coming home to find out someone has been secretly living in your house for weeks—it’s a nightmare scenario no homeowner wants to face.

Signs Someone Might Be Living in Your Home

Here are some common red flags that could mean an intruder is hiding in your home:

1. Strange Noises

If you hear footsteps, muffled voices, or odd thumps coming from rooms, attics, or basements, take it seriously.

2. Missing or Moved Items

Food, clothing, or electronics that disappear—or furniture, cabinets, or lights left in unusual positions—could be signs someone is inside.

3. Pets Acting Strange

Dogs barking at empty rooms or cats staring intensely at certain areas may indicate they sense something you don’t.

4. The Feeling of Being Watched

If you can’t shake the sense that you’re not alone—even when you should be—it may be more than paranoia.

Signs of a Break-In

While phrogging is rare, break-ins are far more common. If you return home after being away, look for:

• Unlocked or open doors and windows you know were secured

• Forced entry signs like broken locks, damaged gates, or shattered glass

• Unfamiliar lights left on

• Missing valuables such as electronics, jewelry, or important documents

• Security camera footage that reveals activity while you were gone

If you suspect an intruder has been inside, call the police immediately and provide any evidence available.

How to Protect Your Home

The most effective way to prevent intruders is with a professionally monitored security system. At St. Louis Alarm Company, we provide complete protection for homeowners, including:

• 24/7 professional monitoring with fast emergency response

• Indoor and outdoor cameras to capture activity and deter criminals

• Smart locks and door/window sensors for real-time alerts

• Video doorbells to monitor visitors and deliveries

• Vacation home monitoring solutions so you’re always connected

Whether it’s your everyday residence or a seasonal property, our systems give you the confidence that your home is always protected.

Secure Your Home Before It’s Too Late

Phrogging may sound like an urban legend, but it’s a real and unsettling threat. Combined with the risk of burglary, it’s more important than ever to safeguard your home.

📞 Call St. Louis Alarm Company at 636-942-5276 or visit www.stlalarmco.com to schedule your free security consultation today.