Gang tattoos are much more than just artwork on the skin; they carry powerful and often dangerous meanings that reveal a person’s connections, rank, and history within criminal groups. Unlike ordinary tattoos which may express personal stories or creativity, gang tattoos serve as coded messages to show loyalty, power, or claim territory.
In many parts of the United States, gangs display their identities through specific symbols and numbers. For example, white supremacist groups often use “14” and “88” tattoos—the first referring to the “14 words” slogan and the second to “Heil Hitler.” Such tattoos warn of extremist beliefs and violence. A spider web tattoo, generally seen on the elbow, usually signifies long prison time, symbolizing being trapped in the system.
Other symbols include the teardrop tattoo, which may indicate involvement in murder or the loss of a close member, and the three dots arranged in a triangle meaning “my crazy life,” widespread across many gangs. The five dots, often found between the thumb and forefinger, represent the walls of prison and time served inside. One of the most serious markers is “MS,” linked to the violent MS-13 gang known worldwide for brutality.
These tattoos also act as territorial markers, warning outsiders and rival gangs to stay away from certain neighborhoods. For communities where gang presence is growing, recognizing these marks can be crucial to safety. With law enforcement resources under pressure, public knowledge becomes a vital tool. If you see such tattoos, it’s best to keep your distance and inform local authorities rather than confront anyone.
@katjtk The meaning and history of the three dot tattoo. From Mi Vida Loca to Daq tattoos in Iraq #greenscreen #threedotstattoo #tattoomeaning #tattoohistory #criminaltattoo
While tattoos can be beautiful or meaningful in many contexts, in gang culture they are strategic, loaded with messages of allegiance or threat. Knowing their meanings helps people protect themselves and their communities, turning simple awareness into a powerful defense.
