Recent news stories highlighted a group of tech-savvy thieves breaking into homes with smart security systems in Los Angeles. While there are ways to strengthen your smart security setup, like hardwiring it if possible, the truth is that the effectiveness of any security system depends on real-life habits. It’s important to note that these actions are accessible to everyone—you don’t necessarily need a smart home.
Place electronic trackers on your valuable items.
The LAPD suggests hiding tracking devices like AirTags, even though attaching them to small items like jewelry or a cherished baseball might be tricky. Besides AirTags, Tile offers similar products. Additionally, there are NFC tags, which have a shorter range but work similarly to AirTags for tracking and don’t need batteries.
Make it tougher for burglars to break in.
One effective method is placing a metal bar inside the sliding glass door. It’s a simple yet secure measure. Similarly, locking bars on windows, gates, railings, and fences add extra protection. While they don’t make break-ins impossible, they make them more difficult. This might mean it takes longer for burglars to get in or make more noise, giving you and your neighbors more time to notice.
Stop sharing everything with everyone.
When you post on social media in real time, you might unknowingly tell people you’re away from home. This can be risky for your safety. After Kim Kardashian’s robbery in Paris, she stopped posting in real time and removed her location. She said, “People really knew my every move, they knew what I had, they knew where I was, what I was doing.” You can protect yourself by using privacy settings on social media to limit who sees your posts. Sharing vacation photos after you return home is also a good idea.
Use smart technology.
If you have a smart security system with cameras, indoor sensors on windows and doors, and smart locks, you can enhance security with additional smart outdoor devices. Connect a motion sensor to your sprinklers. Place a presence sensor on the side of your house to detect people, not just motion. Then, set off an alarm or turn on lights when the sensor detects someone. Motion-activated lights are also important for home security. You can further protect these systems by adding a padlock to your outdoor circuit breaker.
Using multiple methods to prevent break-ins is your best option.
None of these methods are foolproof; they just add layers of protection. Together, each step makes it slightly more difficult for someone to break in. However, remember that your home is not impenetrable like the White House. If someone is determined to break in and has the skills, they might still succeed. That’s why it’s a good idea to keep a record of what’s in your home for insurance purposes.
