I would run if I were you
We were confused the first time we saw this picture, like many other internet users. However, now that we know what this means, we’re terrified for the person who took this picture! Apparently, this is an alarmingly common trend in the U.S., but we’ll explain what this means in case you aren’t familiar.
Kidnappers use this string to target their victims; they put a red string on your car door while it’s parked, and while you try to untangle it, they come and kidnap you for purposes of trade or forced labor. Yes, it’s frightening! This is a common strategy, but it’s good that more and more people share this information online for others to beware!