Inside the bizarre world of 'phrogging': when strangers secretly occupy your home

Imagine living in your own home, completely unaware that a stranger is secretly cohabiting with you. This chilling reality is the essence of phrogging (pronounced "frogging"), a term that refers to individuals who clandestinely inhabit someone else's property, often unnoticed for weeks or even months.

What Is Phrogging?
Derived from the word "frog" – as these intruders metaphorically "hop" from house to house – phrogging involves stealthily entering a property and living there without the owner's knowledge. Unlike burglary, which is typically a quick act of theft, phrogging relies on prolonged, unnoticed presence. The motivations for such acts vary widely, from homelessness to thrill-seeking or even psychological disorders.

Chilling Case Studies
In one infamous case from Hawaii, a couple discovered strange occurrences in their home: misplaced items, unusual noises, and inexplicable messes. A deeper investigation revealed that a man had been secretly living in their crawlspace, emerging when the house was empty. Similarly, in South Carolina, a college student noticed missing food and strange sounds, later finding a stranger hiding in her closet.

Such incidents are not only eerie but also potentially dangerous. Some phroggers exhibit erratic or threatening behaviour when confronted, while others may pose health or safety risks by damaging the property.

Why Is It Gaining Attention?
With the rise of social media and streaming platforms, phrogging has gained notoriety, often discussed in true crime communities and dramatised in films. While cases are still relatively rare, their unsettling nature captures public fascination. Moreover, modern surveillance systems and home automation technology have made it easier to detect such intrusions, leading to more reports and heightened awareness.

Signs You Might Be a Victim
Experts suggest watching out for these red flags:

• Unexplained Noises: Footsteps, whispers, or unusual sounds in your home.

• Missing or Misplaced Items: Items vanishing or appearing in odd locations.