Between 2024 and 2025, over 166,000 home burglaries were reported in England and Wales, averaging 456 incidents daily or one every 189 seconds, as per the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
To ensure the safety of your home, it is crucial to identify vulnerabilities within your property, a task that a former burglar is well-equipped for.
Michael Fraser, an ex-burglar turned security consultant, discloses the common tactics burglars use to identify when homes are unoccupied for extended periods and provides insights on how to secure your property.
Many individuals in the UK habitually share daily updates on social media without realizing that such posts can be valuable to criminals. Security experts warn that sharing live holiday photos and location tags can inadvertently signal to burglars that your home is empty, enabling them to plan break-ins.
According to Michael, social media can be a goldmine for burglars as people often unknowingly reveal too much information online, simplifying the job for criminals.
Thinking like a burglar is the first step in securing your home, advises Michael. During recent police initiatives, he pointed out common mistakes that make it easy for opportunistic burglars, such as unsecured windows, visible valuables, and inadequate locks.
Michael also warns against displaying calendars near windows, especially if they contain information about your travel plans, as burglars could use this to determine when you are away.
In a study involving interviews with ex-burglars, one offender admitted to monitoring social media to track when potential targets were away from home, allowing them to plan their actions accordingly.
Avoid sharing real-time travel updates on public platforms, refrain from posting location-specific content, and be cautious about revealing too much information in your posts to protect your home from potential threats.
Experts at the Online Spy Shop recommend adjusting social media privacy settings to restrict personal information from public view, reducing the risk of being targeted by criminals.
Enhance the security of your home by eliminating potential entry points that burglars look for, such as dark entrances, visible keys, unlocked sheds, and basic door locks. Investing in a robust security system and ensuring proper exterior lighting can further deter criminal activities.
Consider incorporating covert recording devices for added surveillance, as hidden cameras can discreetly monitor and record illicit activities, aiding in the identification and prosecution of offenders.
While visible CCTV cameras are beneficial, combining them with hidden cameras can provide enhanced security measures. Prioritize safety and security by refraining from sharing sensitive information on public social media accounts to avoid becoming a target for burglars.
Former burglars emphasize the importance of adhering to safety precautions before posting on social media to prevent potential losses and safeguard your home against intruders.