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Common home security mistakes that make you a target for burglars

Learn how to keep thieves at bay
Posting pictures of your house keys online
Not installing locks on windows
Not closing blinds and curtains when it gets dark
Making it obvious your house is unoccupied
Leaving expensive goods on display
Letting post pile up
Posting on social media when you're away
Leaving rubbish out
Leaving notes out for delivery drivers
Not installing motion-activated lighting
Not having a video doorbell
Leaving belongings out
Creating a vulnerable outdoor office
Leaving a key in obvious places
Placing outdoor storage by windows
Forgoing garden CCTV
Hiding the front of your house
Leaving tools around
Leaving a key fob by the front door
Leaving your house keys near the door
Leaving car keys on display
Not having a burglar alarm (or having an unreliable one)
Making it easy for ID thieves
Having low fencing (or none at all)
Forgetting the garage
Not checking the deadlock
Using a window air-conditioning unit
Having a quiet driveway
Having a dense garden
Having estate agent signs outside
Not participating in Neighbourhood Watch
Not having a dog
Not checking installed locks
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Learn how to keep thieves at bay

Until it does happen, a home break-in is something you think will never happen to you. But burglary is one of the most common crimes to occur and cases are rarely solved. The good news is that home security experts say that the most simple deterrents are often the most effective – visible locks on windows and doors and a security camera go a long way. On the flip side, some basic mistakes could flag your house as an easy target.

Click or scroll on to find out what common mistakes can attract intruders...

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Abby Driver

02 July 2024

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