A graffiti "tag'' is a term used to describe an "autograph'' signature left by vandals in spray paint or permanent marker.

Police said tagging was the most common type of graffiti and it was used among vandals as a means of identification and recognition for their work.

Pictures of the most common graffiti tags in Sutherland Shire will be published in the Leader over the coming weeks.

Miranda local area command crime prevention officer, Senior Constable Tina Davies, said this approach was used to identify the vandals behind a series of attacks on Cronulla Surf Club in July last year. Police charged several youths after tip-offs from readers.

Senior Constable Davies said the "BTS'' tag (pictured) had been used extensively in Miranda and neighbouring suburbs in recent months.

She said anyone with information about the "BTS'' tag should contact Miranda police on 9527 8199 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Senior Constable Davies said it was possible to reduce the amount of graffiti in the shire with help from the public.

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