Burglars Admit These 6 ‘Security Tricks’ Don’t Fool Them at All
Most of us think we are pretty smart when it comes to home security, right? Unfortunately, many people subscribe to “tricks” that don’t actually fool anyone. In fact, many thieves roll their eyes and laugh at what homeowners think gives them protection. You shouldn’t rely on gimmicks to keep your home safe. More importantly, don’t buy into these six “security tricks.” Burglars don’t believe them for one minute.
1. Fake Security Cameras Are Easy to Spot
Many homeowners install dummy cameras, thinking they’ll trick intruders, but burglars say those fakes are obvious. Real criminals look for wiring, connectivity, and signs of real integration with alarms. If there’s no cable, no recording icon, or the camera never moves, they know it’s a facade. In fact, a 2024 security blog warns that burglars can instantly spot dummy alarm boxes or fake cameras because they don’t behave like real systems. Investing in a real, functioning camera system is vastly more effective than relying on deception.
2. “We’re Home” Lights Don’t Always Work
Some homeowners set their lights on timers or use smart plugs to simulate occupancy, but burglars say they’re not impressed. Criminals often watch a house for days and notice patterns or the same lights switching on and off at regular intervals. If the routine is too predictable, it becomes meaningless. House Logic warns that routines with controlled lighting can backfire, making your home look rehearsed, not inhabited. Vary when lights switch, mix rooms, and add motion-triggered lights to create randomness.
3. “Beware of Dog” Signs Don’t Scare Them
You might think a “Beware of Dog” sign is a smart deterrent, but burglars say it rarely fazes them. Many know that the sign doesn’t guarantee any dog at all (or a dangerous one). What really matters is the real risk of detection and confrontation, not a printed warning. It is not advised to rely on faux deterrents like dummy alarms or signs, because seasoned burglars can tell the difference. If you want to amplify security, a real, vocal dog or real motion sensors help far more than signage alone.
4. Hiding Valuables in “Clever” Spots Is Futile
Under the mattress? Inside a hollowed-out vase? These are top spots burglars check first. According to AAA’s advice, many so-called “safe hiding spots” are actually the first places criminals search. Portable safes that aren’t bolted down are also easily carried off. The more you try to outsmart them with trick spots, the more likely your valuables will be found. A locked, well-secured safe is a better approach than relying on clever placement.
5. Overposting on Social Media = Open Invitation
Posting your travel plans, future vacations, or “we’re out of town” status on social media is like putting up a billboard reading “Go rob me.” Burglars say they monitor social accounts and target homes at the perfect time. In fact, experts warn that oversharing location and absence clues is a common security mistake. Even geotagged photos can signal your absence. The smarter move? Wait until you’re home to post, disable location tags, or keep social accounts strictly private.
6. Leaving Spare Keys Under a Rock Is Laughably Obvious
Under a doormat? Inside a fake rock? Burglars admit they look there first, every time. They assume homeowners fall back on the same old tricks, so checking obvious hiding spots is fast and routine. SafeWise reveals that front door entry is a common burglary method, and once inside, these keys help them in and out quickly. Always avoid external key hiding. Instead, store a spare key with a trusted neighbor or use a smart lock with temporary codes.
What Burglars Say You Should Actually Do
Rather than relying on tricks that criminals see through, invest in multi-layered protection in the form of locks, sensors, alarms, and awareness. Use real security systems and cameras, randomized lighting, and avoid giving away your schedule online. Knowing which gimmicks don’t work is just as important as knowing what does. Adopt a mindset of real deterrence, not illusion. Your home (and your peace of mind) depends on it.
Have you ever tried a security “hack” that failed? Share your experience and what actually worked in the comments below.
