What Is This Tip That Has Gone Viral On Social Networks?

what is this tip that has gone viral on social networks?

Last updated: 2025/11/22 at 4:56 AM

News Room Published 22 November 2025

The technique has the merit of being low-cost, and it is already making domestic alarm manufacturers (no) tremble. The trend, which appeared a few years ago, returns cyclically on social networks. This summer, while many French men and women were going on vacation, it made a comeback. According to several videos that have gone viral, aluminum foil is a formidable hack for protecting your home from burglaries. It would be enough to wrap a crumpled sheet around your door handle to protect yourself. In detail, the idea is based on several arguments:

The sound of aluminum rustling when it comes into contact with a hand or a tool could frighten and deter burglars
If the occupants are at home, the noise could also alert you to a possible intrusion
In the event of a break-in attempt, the torn paper would serve as “proof”

Not a brilliant trick

Quite logically, the police and professionals in the sector do not view this method favorably. From 2024, the German police had called for caution regarding this homemade DIY, which is not really effective in the event of theft. In addition to not meeting any official security requirements, the main argument of the method is quickly questionable. Crumpling of aluminum, if it occurs, is likely to go unnoticed, particularly if residents are not in the immediate vicinity or if they are sleeping.

More generally, the trend highlights the ease with which fake news spreads on social networks. By wrongly thinking that they are protected, some overly gullible Internet users could neglect to take real, more effective measures, such as installing an alarm or choosing a connected lock. Especially since burglars are not limited to the front door. Windows, balcony doors, cellars, garages, etc. remain major points of intrusion. In this case, the door handle packaging does not protect. This “tip” should in no way replace good practices and common sense: lock all exits, never hide your keys outside, remain vigilant about suspicious comings and goings in the neighborhood, and if possible, invest in connected alarms or certified locks. An armored door or a multi-point lock sound like much more reliable protection than a piece of aluminum foil. Obviously, it costs more.