When it comes to home security, knowledge is power. A self-proclaimed former burglar, now leading a much different life, has come forward with some startling insights into the methods burglars use and how you can protect yourself. This anonymous individual spent years breaking into homes before turning her life around, and now, she’s offering practical advice to homeowners who want to avoid becoming a target.

The Criminal’s Perspective: What Makes a House Vulnerable?

At just 18 years old, the burglar began her criminal career as a way to support a drug addiction while living on the streets. She explains that while she initially targeted homes for items to sell, she soon developed a keen eye for what made a house an easy mark. In a candid Reddit post, she described the type of homes she would look for, offering an inside perspective on how burglars choose their targets.

She shared that she avoided houses with dogs outside, fearing they would alert the homeowner with loud barking. Despite knowing that dogs bark at almost anything, she still viewed them as a potential deterrent. Homes without cars parked outside during the day were also prime targets. The absence of vehicles, in her experience, signaled that the house was empty. Additionally, houses with easily accessible backdoors and climbable windows were appealing, as these provided easier entry points.

What You Can Do to Prevent a Break-In

Knowing what burglars look for can empower homeowners to make small changes that significantly enhance security. The former burglar emphasized several key strategies that can deter thieves and make your home less inviting to intruders.

1. Install Security Cameras
One of the most effective deterrents is the presence of security cameras. The former burglar admits that the sight of cameras made her wary of targeting a home. “Cameras are a good deterrent,” she says, especially those equipped with facial recognition features like Ring cameras. Surveillance systems don’t have to be expensive, and they offer peace of mind.

2. Use Alarm Systems
Alarm systems can be a great deterrent too, but the former burglar advises homeowners to educate themselves on how to properly use them. An alarm system that’s improperly set or disabled could make it useless. Ensuring your alarm is functional and activated is critical.

3. Keep the TV On
If you’re going to be out during the day, leaving a TV on can give the impression that someone is home. The former burglar explains that this simple tactic makes your home less of a target. While not a foolproof strategy, it can work to create the illusion of presence.

4. Take Car Security Seriously
Many homeowners may not think about car security as much as home security, but according to the ex-burglar, visible dash cameras—pointed at both the front and rear—are a good deterrent for thieves. Additionally, never leaving your vehicle unlocked is essential. The burglar states that she only stole from unlocked cars, as it wasn’t worth the time to break into a locked vehicle.

5. Be Mindful of Daytime Risks
Interestingly, the former burglar claims that the risk of burglary is actually higher during the day. She explains that burglars often case houses during daylight hours, as this is when homes are most likely to be empty. Contrary to popular belief, night-time break-ins are more rare and typically happen for more dangerous reasons.

Additional Tips to Secure Your Home

Beyond cameras and alarms, the former burglar advises investing in simple security measures like door stop locks and high-quality deadbolts. “A door stop lock can make it a lot harder to open your door,” she says, offering a low-cost, high-impact solution. Deadbolts, which offer an extra layer of security, should be installed on all external doors.

Conclusion: Protect Your Home with Practical Measures

While a burglar’s insights into targeting homes might feel unsettling, it’s important to remember that awareness is the first step in preventing theft. By understanding how criminals think, you can better secure your home and keep your family safe. Whether it’s through security cameras, alarm systems, or simple door locks, these proactive measures can go a long way in making your home a less appealing target.