Taggertrap, a prototype alarm warning system by Traptec, is activated by the ultrasonic sound of a graffiti artist’s spray can. In the past, it has been almost impossible to catch graffiti vandals in the act. Now, thanks to Taggertrap, authorities are instantly alerted to acts of graffiti. The device has wireless sensors that can detect the sound of aerosol sibilance within 200 feet.

Once it has detected the telltale sound, Taggertrap contacts the police via a cell phone and records the vandals with tiny DV cameras. Authorities receive the DV footage immediately via e-mail and dispatch personnel to the area. Early tests in San Diego caught over 20 graffiti vandals red-handed in a single day.