While homes today are better protected through the advancement of home security systems and Smart technology, burglars have also evolved their methods. It is important to be aware of these, so here are the 20 most alarming burglary trends happening today and how to protect yourself against them.
The Increase in Daytime Robberies
It used to be that burglars operated only at night, but these days, daytime burglaries are common. This is because they target properties whose owners are out at work. A good way to protect against this is to make sure alarms and cameras are in operation throughout the day.
Using Social Media to Help with Home Targets
Social media is now a prime spot for criminals to hang out and monitor posts that may reveal information about people’s homes. CTV News warns that sharing vacation plans online can let burglars know your home is empty, so you’ll want to amend your privacy settings and be more careful about what you reveal.
Package Thefts from Front Porches
Unfortunately, the rise in online shopping and the variety of self-employed delivery drivers these days means a rise in package theft crime. Leaving packages unattended on front porches may make them prime targets for criminals. To avoid this, find a safe place for packages to be left and use video doorbells.
Targeting High-Value Electronics
Another alarming trend on the rise is the targeting of high-value electronics specifically, and this can be because so many homes nowadays are fitted with smart technology and high-value items. Failing to have proper home storage, such as safes, for your expensive items will only put them more at risk.
Advanced Lock Picking and Bumping Techniques
It can also be shocking how burglars have managed to adapt their lock-picking techniques to target even advanced locks. They are now capable of using improved picking and bumping techniques to gain entry more easily. Smart locks can often be the best choice in deterring this kind of crime, instead of traditional lock systems.
Increase in Garage Break-Ins
Unfortunately, many people neglect their garage security even if the rest of their home is locked tight. Criminals have increased their methods of gaining access through the garage, often due to weak points like garage door sensors. Forbes recommends reinforcing your garage doors to keep thieves out.
Higher Instances of Repeat Burglaries
It can be wishful thinking to believe your home will only be robbed once, as criminals are now visiting homes they’ve already accessed. Stolen items will have been replaced, therefore offering new items to steal. The best way to tackle this is to improve home security after any incident with thieves.
Using Drones for Surveillance
Another alarming burglary trend is the use of drones by criminals to scout potential properties. They can use drones to monitor a resident’s comings and goings and identify weak points around the building. To protect yourself against this, use privacy screens or even anti-drone technology.
Burglars Are Now Working Together
It used to be that burglars operated alone, but there are now growing groups of criminals working together to better target houses and coordinate break-ins. These group efforts can be more effective at getting past security systems. A neighborhood watch program can really help protect your property and spot suspicious groups.
Rural Break-ins are on the Rise
Urban areas are often more at risk of high criminal activity, but now rural properties have become increasing targets thanks to the likelihood of them having less extensive security, as well as being more isolated. Be sure to install motion sensor lights and alarms to keep your rural home protected.
Holiday Seasons are Being Exploited
Unfortunately, burglars don’t take a holiday either, and there’s a rise in holiday attacks, too. Homes are often likely to be left empty when residents are traveling or visiting family, so thieves target homes that could also contain expensive gifts. Amping up your security around the holidays can make a big difference.
Criminals May Also Pay Attention to a Home’s Lighting
Another burglary trend on the rise is targeting homes with minimal lighting. Burglars will often scout out homes that are poorly lit or which are more likely to provide them with the cover of darkness. Smart lighting is one of the best options to protect your property, says The New York Times.
Posing as Utility Workers
Another dangerous trend is criminals posing as utility workers to knock on your door and gain access. Fake uniforms and even convincing ID badges can easily deceive homeowners, so never give access without verifying their credentials.
Quick Smash-and-Grab Tactics
Rising burglary trends don’t always mean advanced tactics, as quick smash-and-grab jobs have also become commonplace. Burglars do this to limit the time they’re spending in your home in order to grab the most expensive items. The best way to prevent this is to keep valuables hidden and reinforce your windows and doors.
Using the Dark Web to Sell Stolen Goods
The rise of the internet also means there’s an alarming trend of burglars using the dark web to sell stolen items. This is an easy way for criminals to make money without it being traced back to them. Safeguard against this by marking valuables with identifiable information for easier recovery.
Exploiting Home Renovation or Construction
Another trend among criminals is targeting homes under renovation or construction sites. This is because they often have easier access and reduced security. There may also be tools left around that burglars will likely want to steal, so you’ll want to ensure proper locks and surveillance at all times.
Targeting Second Homes or Vacation Homes
Second homes and vacation homes are often left unattended for long periods of time while still fully furnished, which is why they’re growing in appeal to burglars. The best way to prevent vacation home theft is to make sure they’re fitted with security systems, as well as regularly checking on them.
Disabling Alarm Systems and Cameras
It used to be that alarms and cameras were enough to deter thieves, but there has also been an alarming trend in sophisticated disabling techniques. These include cutting wires or signal jammers to sabotage security systems, which you can fight against by investing in a second layer of security.
Exploiting Vulnerable Neighborhoods
Your neighborhood itself may also be making your home more of a target, even if you have adequate security. That’s because criminals are now growing savvy to less social neighborhoods. Those without neighborhood watch programs can often mean neighbors don’t know each other or bother to watch each other’s houses.
Robbing a Home While Residents are Home
For our final and perhaps most alarming trend, many burglars these days aren’t even waiting until a property is empty. Their bold methods often come from spontaneity, as according to Bankrate, 41% of burglaries are spur-of-the-moment. The best way to tackle this is to have an emergency response plan.
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