Ever felt that eerie sensation of being watched when you’re alone in a room with a mirror? Well, fear no more! A police officer has recently gone viral on TikTok after sharing a simple method to determine if you’re being spied on through a two-way mirror. With over 7.2 million views, this video has caught the attention of many concerned individuals.
In the video, TikTok user Brian, who is also a police officer, demonstrates how to spot a two-way mirror in public spaces. He starts by placing his finger on the mirror and showing a gap between his finger and its reflection. “Things to remember about mirrors in public. Put your finger up to it and if there’s a space, you’re in a safe place,” Brian explains in the video.
The video sparked a range of reactions from viewers. Some were confused, thinking that a space indicated a possible two-way mirror. Others humorously checked their own mirrors at home, even though they had bought them themselves. One user even joked, “No space, leave the place!”
However, some viewers were puzzled when they didn’t find the space when checking their own mirrors at home. One user wrote, “There’s no space in my bathroom mirror at home. Sorry to whoever’s watching me.” Another asked, “Is this true? Tried it in my own home and all the mirrors don’t have the space.”
To address the confusion, Brian posted a follow-up video to clarify his original statement. He explained that there are two basic kinds of mirrors: one with a reflective material and glass slapped on the front, and another without the glass layer. When you put your finger on the mirror with the glass layer, your finger touches the glass before it touches its reflection, creating a gap.
Brian further elaborated on the different types of mirrors and provided a two-step authentication process for checking mirrors. Step one is the finger test, where you check for a small gap. If there is a gap, you’re probably fine. Step two involves pushing on the mirror to see if it flexes. If it does, it’s likely just a cheap mirror. However, to be extra safe, Brian advises analyzing the mirror and asking yourself, “Is this made of glass?” If it is and your finger’s reflection touches itself, that’s how you know someone can easily alter behind the mirror.
While Brian’s method is a simple and quick way to check for two-way mirrors in public spaces, there are more accurate methods as well. According to WikiHow, shining a light on the mirror, tapping on it, and even breaking it (in extreme cases) can help discern whether a mirror is two-way.
In an interview with the Daily Dot, Brian clarified that his video is intended for those who may be worried about hotel rooms or Airbnbs that might have two-way mirrors. His method works for standard business and industrial glass-manufactured mirrors but not for cheaper mirrors without a glass layer.
So, the next time you find yourself alone in a room with a mirror and that familiar feeling of being watched creeps in, remember Brian’s simple method. Put your finger up to the mirror and check for a space. And if there’s a space, rest assured that you’re in a safe place.
