10 Ways Your Home Attracts Burglars (Fix It Now)

Your Smart Home Might Be Vulnerable to Burglars

Did you know that a home burglary happens every 15 seconds in the United States? That’s around 4,800 burglaries each day.

Burglars look for specific signs that indicate a home is unsecured or that no one is present. Here are 10 ways your home might attract burglars, along with practical solutions to help prevent it.

No Security Cameras? Big Risk for Burglary

Problem: Homes without any form of security cameras is three times more likely to be targeted by burglars. Burglars often avoid homes with visible security systems because they increase the risk of getting caught.

Fix: Install smart security cameras in obvious places to act as a deterrent. These cameras can send real-time alerts to your smartphone, keeping you informed about any suspicious activity.

Burglars Take Advantage of Security System Blind Spots

Problem: Some burglars exploit blind spots in your security system and disable them without triggering alarms. They often look for areas that aren’t well-monitored, like backyards or less visible areas.

Solution: Activate the motion sensor feature on your system to cover all potential entry points. This ensures you receive instant alerts for any unexpected movement, helping you respond quickly.

Oddly Timed Lights Reveal No One Is Home

Problem: Leaving lights on at unusual times can signal that no one is home, making it an obvious target for burglars. Burglars often watch for these signs to confirm an empty house.

Solution: Use smart lights to schedule when they should turn on and off. This creates the impression that someone is home, even if you’re away, preventing burglars from easily spotting an opportunity.

Avoid Hiding Spare Keys Under Mats or in Plants

Problem: Hiding spare keys under doormats or in potted plants is one of the first places burglars check. This outdated tactic makes it easy for them to gain access without breaking in.

Fix: Switch to smart door locks that unlock with a password or app. This eliminates the need for spare keys entirely and enhances security by removing easy entry points.

Doorbell Ringing Can Be a Burglary Test

Problem: Burglars often ring the doorbell to check if anyone is home before attempting to break in. If no one answers, they assume the house is empty and proceed.

Solution: Install a smart doorbell that records visitors and allows you to answer remotely. This gives the impression that someone is always home, deterring potential burglars from proceeding.

Open Curtains Reveal Valuables to Burglars

Problem: Leaving curtains open allows burglars to see valuable items inside your home, making it more tempting to break in. Homes with visible electronics or jewelry are prime targets.

Solution: Use smart blinds that can be closed remotely, ensuring privacy even if you forget when leaving. This keeps your valuables hidden and reduces the likelihood of being targeted.

Piled-Up Mail and Boxes Signal an Empty Home

Problem: A pile of mail or delivery boxes is a clear sign that no one is home. This signals to burglars that your home may be an easy target for a break-in.

Solution: Consider using a smart delivery box where packages can be securely stored. This keeps your packages hidden from view, and you can ask a neighbor to collect your mail if you’re away for an extended period.

Quiet Homes Are Prime Targets for Burglars

Problem: Burglars often target homes that seem quiet and inactive, assuming no one is inside. An absence of sound or activity makes it easier for them to break in without detection.

Solution: Use your smart TV or speakers to simulate activity while you’re away. You can turn them on and off remotely, creating the illusion that someone is inside, which can deter burglars.

Neglected Lawns Attract Burglars

Problem: An overgrown lawn suggests that no one has been home for a while, making your house an attractive target for burglars. A neglected exterior is an obvious clue.

Solution: Use a smart lawn mower to maintain your yard regularly, even while you’re away. Keeping your yard well-maintained gives the appearance that someone is home, discouraging intruders.

Sliding Glass Doors Are Easy Targets for Burglars

Problem: Sliding glass doors are often vulnerable to break-ins because they can be easily forced open. They are common entry points for burglars due to their simplicity.

Solution: Install smart patio door locks that allow you to monitor and control access remotely. This enhances the security of your doors, ensuring they are properly locked even if you’re away.

Swipe to check some additional effective tips to keep your home safe when you’re away.

Don’t Announcing Your Absence

Another key precaution when leaving your home unattended is to avoid posting about your vacation on social media until after you return.

Sharing details about your trip while you’re away can alert potential burglars that your home is unoccupied.

Keep Your Property Safe with a Car in the Driveway

A simple yet effective home security tip for when you’re away is to park a car in the driveway.

This creates the illusion that someone is home, helping to deter potential burglars and keep your property safe while you’re out of town.

Use a “Beware of Dog” Sign to Scare Off Intruders

Place a “Beware of Dog” sign even if you don’t have a dog. Burglars are less likely to target homes with such signs, fearing the potential presence of large dogs that could alert neighbors.

This simple precaution creates uncertainty for intruders, making your home seem more secure and reducing the risk of break-ins when you’re away.

Top Smart Home Security Tips for Fall Burglaries

As fall approaches, adjust your smart home security to prevent seasonal burglaries. Ensure your cameras, lights, and locks are properly set up to address common vulnerabilities, such as visible valuables or neglected yards.

If you want to stay ahead of potential threats, check out “Top Smart Home Security Tips for Fall Burglaries” for essential tips and strategies.

Protect Your Smart Devices from Hackers

Securing your smart devices is crucial to prevent burglars from exploiting any vulnerabilities. Ensure all devices are updated with the latest security patches and use strong, unique passwords for each.

Enable two-factor authentication where possible to add an extra layer of protection. For more detailed guidance, check out “Top Tips to Protect Your Smart Devices from Hackers.”