15 Burglar Tactics and Ways to Outsmart Them

Protecting your home from burglars requires more than just locking the doors. Modern burglars are skilled at exploiting weaknesses and using sophisticated methods to break in. To stay ahead of the game, you need to understand their tactics. Read on as we reveal 15 burglar tactics and offer effective ways to outsmart them.

Disabling Security Systems

Some burglars are skilled in tampering with alarm systems and cameras. They may cut phone lines, turn off power sources, or use devices that block wireless signals. To counter this, invest in a security system with battery backups and redundant communication paths like cellular and Wi-Fi. Also, ensure your cameras and alarms are well-hidden and difficult to access.

Using Social Media to Track Your Movements

Social media posts about vacations or daily routines are goldmines for burglars. Monitoring these platforms helps determine when you’re away from home. Avoid posting your location in real time and ensure privacy settings are tight. In addition, inform close friends and family of your plans through direct messages rather than public posts.

Scoping Out the Neighborhood

Often, burglars spend time in neighborhoods to learn routines and identify targets. These individuals may pose as joggers, delivery personnel, or maintenance workers. Be vigilant of unfamiliar faces and report suspicious behavior to your local authorities. Forming a neighborhood watch group also improves communal security.

Bypassing Smart Locks

Often, burglars will use devices that intercept and decode signals from smart locks. This entails employing a technique called “relay hacking,” which captures the signal from your key fob and transmits it to unlock your door. To outsmart them, store your key fob in a signal-blocking pouch and constantly update your lock’s firmware.  

Insider Information

Sometimes, they gain access through inside knowledge from contractors, cleaners, or acquaintances. Vet anyone who can access your home, and be cautious about sharing security details. Use background checks and references when hiring help. Changing security codes and locks periodically will also reduce the risk of insider threats.

Tapping on Windows

Burglars often tap on windows to check for alarms or to determine if anyone is home. A loud tap might signal that a window is not alarmed, making it a more accessible entry point. To prevent this, install glass break sensors that trigger an alarm when a window is struck. Reinforce windows with shatter-resistant film or upgrade to double-pane glass for added protection.

Monitoring Garbage and Recycling

There is valuable information from your trash, such as receipts, bank statements, or packaging from expensive items. Shred important documents before trashing them, and avoid leaving boxes for high-value items on the curb. Break down boxes and place them inside your recycling bin to keep them out of sight.

“Do Not Disturb” Signs

Hotels aren’t the only places where “Do Not Disturb” signs can be used. Burglars might place these signs on your door to buy themselves time. Avoid using such signs unnecessarily; always notify trusted neighbors or friends when you’re away. A home monitoring system alerts you to unusual activity, such as leaving a door ajar.

Manipulating Landscaping

Overgrown shrubs and trees near windows or doors provide cover for burglars. Keep your landscaping trimmed and ensure no hiding spots close to entry points. Use thorny bushes under windows to deter climbing. Installing motion-activated lights in dark areas around your property further improves security.

Mail and Package Theft

Some burglars monitor mailboxes and doorsteps for piled-up mail or packages, indicating no one is home. When you’re away, use a lockable mailbox and request a mail hold from the post office. For packages, use delivery lockers or ask a trusted neighbor to collect them. A parcel box, set in place, also secures your deliveries until you retrieve them.

Manipulating Garage Doors

Garage doors are a common target due to their often weaker security. The intruder might use coat hangers or other tools to disengage the emergency release mechanism. Secure your garage door using a zip tie on the emergency release or installing a garage door shield. Additionally, ensure your garage door opener uses rolling code technology to prevent signal interception.

Using Drones

Tech-savvy thieves might use drones to scout your property and look for security weaknesses from the air. Invest in privacy measures such as window treatments that obscure views from above. Position security systems such as drone detectors and cameras with a wide field of view. Remember to remain attentive and report any suspicious drone activity to local authorities.

Baiting Dogs with Treats

A well-trained guard dog is a great deterrent, but burglars have tricks to neutralize them. They may toss treats with sedatives or befriend the dog over time. To counter this, train your dog not to accept food from strangers and consider investing in non-toxic deterrent sprays.

Impersonation Tactics

Burglars often pose as delivery personnel, maintenance workers, or even utility company employees to gain home access with fake uniforms or bogus identification to blend in. If someone seems suspicious or doesn’t provide satisfactory identification, don’t hesitate to contact the company they claim to represent.

Using Decoys

Sometimes, intruders leave items like flyers or small objects to gauge whether someone is home. These items help them track activity and identify empty houses. Remove any unexpected items from your property promptly. Automated lighting systems also create the illusion of occupancy when you’re away.