Lisa O
Burglaries happen when thieves see easy chances. The FBI says many burglaries involve someone getting in through an unlocked door or open window. While locking doors and windows helps, there are other signs you need to look for to keep your home safer. Here are 15 signs your house might be watched by robbers.
Strange Graffiti or Symbols
Graffiti and symbols are often used by people to mark houses for different reasons, including criminal activities or claiming territory. Watch out for strange symbols, gang tags, or odd writings on your property—especially near entry points like the front door or garage. If you see these markings, report them to the local authorities right away and take photos for reference.
Weird Marks on Your Home’s Exterior
Unusual markings on the outside of your home can be secret signals for robbers watching your place. These might be scratches, symbols, or patterns that seem out of place or look like they were intentionally made to send a message. Regularly check your property for any strange signs, and if you spot any, remove or just cover them right away to keep your home from being targeted.
Random Security Cameras or Gear Nearby
Finding random security devices near your property could be a big hint that someone is spying on your home. These might be hidden cameras, outdoor surveillance cams, or recording gadgets set up to keep tabs on you and what’s happening at your place. If you spot any of this stuff, don’t hesitate to call the local authorities or a security expert right away to get it checked out and removed.
Signs of People Trespassing
If you notice things like footprints, loose roof tiles, signs of forced entry, or stuff left behind on your property, it might mean someone’s been trying to break in or watch your place. Keep an eye on your property for any signs of people messing around or sneaking in. If you find any proof of trespassing, let the local authorities know and make sure to increase your home security to stop more intrusions.
Suspicious Materials Left Around Your Property
Finding suspicious materials near your property could be a sign that robbers are eyeing your place. These materials might include weird objects or unusual substances, suggesting that your home has been targeted or watched by people with bad intentions. If you spot anything strange, don’t touch it—call the authorities right away to check it out.
Frequent Nighttime Visitors
If you see people hanging around your place late at night, especially when it’s weird hours, it could mean someone’s watching your home. Consider adding some outdoor lights or a security camera system. Motion-activated lights at spots like your side or back door can help. Also, leaving some lights on at night can make robbers think twice about targeting your home.
Messed Up Trash Bins
If you notice your garbage bins have been messed with, like trash scattered around or stuff taken out without you knowing, it could mean someone’s keeping an eye on your place or marking it as a target. Thieves might dig through your trash to learn about your routine or find spots to rob. If you find your garbage has been tampered with, let the police know right away.
Unknown Cars Parked Nearby
If you notice strange cars parked near your place—especially ones that don’t belong to you, your neighbors, or regular visitors, it might be a big sign that someone’s watching your home. These cars could be used by people spying on you or planning something suspicious. Jot down the car details and license plate numbers and inform the authorities.
Neighbors Reporting Suspicious Activity
If your neighbors or other locals tell you about weird behavior around your place, like strangers hanging out or acting off, it might mean someone’s targeting your home. Team up with your neighbors to share information and let the local authorities know about any suspicious stuff. Setting up a neighborhood watch can help scare off intruders and make the area safer for everyone.
People Taking Photos of Your Place
If you spot strangers snapping photos of your property or family members without a good reason, it can be a red flag that someone is marking your house. Pay attention to people who keep taking pictures of your place or its surroundings—especially if they’re acting weird or dodging questions about what they’re up to.
Missing Pet
If your pet goes missing, especially under strange circumstances or without a good reason, it might be a sign that something shady is going on around your home. Sometimes, robbers or people spying on you might grab pets to get into your place. If your pet disappears, make sure to tighten up your home security to keep intruders out.
Broken or Tampered Locks
If you spot messed-up or broken locks on your doors or windows, it’s a clear sign someone’s tried to break in. First-floor windows or a slightly open garage door are easy pickings for thieves. They usually target weak or dodgy locks because they’re easier to break. If you notice any tampering, get those locks fixed or replaced ASAP.
Pushy Door-to-Door Salespeople
If door-to-door salespeople or solicitors keep showing up and won’t leave when you ask them to, it might mean someone’s checking out your home or looking for targets. Watch out for anyone you don’t know who acts weird or can’t show proper ID. If you have any odd encounters, let the local authorities know so they can look into it.
Suddenly Empty Fuel Tank
If you notice your vehicle’s fuel tank is suddenly empty, especially if it was full or had some gas before—it could mean someone’s messing with your car. Thieves might drain the gas to make it harder for you to respond if they’re targeting your home. It’s a good idea to set up extra cameras to figure out why your fuel is going missing.
More Break-ins in Your Area
If you hear about more break-ins or crime happening around your neighborhood—it’s a clear sign that your home might be at risk. Stay up-to-date with local crime news and team up with your neighbors to boost security and keep threats away. Report any incidents to the police and take steps to protect your home from theft or break-ins.