Home burglaries can happen anywhere—even in busy neighborhoods. While locking doors is essential, there are many other smart strategies that can help protect your property and give you peace of mind.

1. Do not post information about your location on social networks

Sharing your life online is fun, but posting your location can make your home a target. Criminals may monitor your social activity to plan break-ins. Avoid public “check-ins” and limit details about your daily routine or upcoming trips to prevent thieves from knowing when your house is empty.

2. Keep the radio or music playing when leaving the house

Burglars often knock or ring before forcing entry. If they hear silence, they assume no one is home. Playing the TV or music can deter intruders. For longer absences, a smart plug allows you to control a radio remotely, simulating activity inside the house.

3. Park near the driveway

An empty driveway signals absence. Ask a neighbor to park by your home, or have a relative visit occasionally. This simple tactic creates the impression that the house is occupied and discourages potential break-ins.

4. Shred and destroy important documents you no longer need

Identity theft is not just fiction. Papers containing financial data, personal details, or even junk mail can be exploited. Always shred sensitive documents before discarding them. Keep necessary papers stored securely to avoid handing useful information to criminals.

5. Apply anti-peeping film to your windows

Security window films make it harder for outsiders to see into your home. These thin, transparent layers can be adjusted based on privacy needs. By blocking visibility, they reduce burglars’ interest in your property.

6. Place fake items in places where thieves are likely to “visit”

Some burglars bypass alarms and strike quickly, grabbing whatever they find in common hiding spots. You can trick them by leaving a decoy box with fake money, jewelry, or useless papers in places like closets or drawers—making them believe they’ve stolen something valuable.

7. Hang a large house number

Homes with unclear addresses are often targeted. Displaying your house number prominently not only deters burglars but also helps emergency services find your home quickly, increasing the chances of catching intruders in time.

8. Do not post pictures with keys

A key visible in a photo can be copied digitally with modern tools. Always check your images before posting online, as thieves could replicate your keys and gain easy access to your home.

9. Make friends with your neighbors

Close-knit communities experience fewer burglaries. When neighbors look out for each other, suspicious activity is noticed faster. If you’re away, neighbors can act as extra eyes, keeping your home safer.

10. Place a cup of nuts behind the door

A simple trick involves placing a cup of seeds behind the door. If someone enters, the seeds scatter, signaling intrusion. This DIY alarm system helps you detect break-ins instantly—especially when you hear the seeds fall to the floor.