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The internet is overflowing with information: some useful, some questionable, and some downright bizarre. In one particularly fascinating corner of the web, we stumbled upon multiple threads where former burglars shared their biggest deterrents. These ex-criminals didn’t hold back, offering real advice on what makes them skip a house and what puts it straight on their target list.
From clever security tricks to surprisingly bad hiding spots, they revealed what actually works when it comes to protecting your home. And honestly, when tips come straight from the people who used to break in, you might want to listen. These insights are equal parts intriguing and eye-opening. Keep reading to find out how to make your home one they’d never dare to mess with.
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#2
Wild Cream 5 months ago
My parents have three amazingly lovely dogs. The best burglar alarms ever. They live on a large property and I visit a few times a month - every single time I go over, I make a game out of really quietly driving my car into the yard and sneaking into the house to see how far I can get before they notice me. No matter how quiet I try to be (and I’m pretty skinny, and I’ve silently tiptoed in my socks through open doors before) I’ve never gotten more than 10ft into their huge house before I hear the stampede coming towards me 😆
#3
Movies often show burglars cracking the most advanced alarms with ease, but real life isn’t quite so simple. Still, break-ins do happen. In 2017, Costa Rica recorded the world’s highest burglary rate: 1,578 break-ins per 100,000 people.
France, Spain, and the UK also reported alarmingly high numbers that year. The global average, based on 79 countries, stood at 105 robberies per 100,000 individuals. In contrast, Oman had just 1 per 100,000, highlighting a vast range in global security levels.
#4
TheGreaterDebater 5 months ago
That's good for you to say. My retriever would gladly prioritize dog food or cuddles over fighting intruders. Still a cutie though.
#5
Wild Cream 5 months ago
My grandparents have the most obnoxious alarm system I’ve ever heard. Last time I visited, it was a hot stuffy summer, so I went to crack the window open in the middle of the night. From down the hall this loud beep sounds and a tinny recorded voice shrieks “WINDOW. OPEN.” 😆 Next morning I was awake before everyone and decided to dip out and grab some fresh bakery stuff to surprise everyone with for breakfast. Quietly open the back door and the same robot voice hollers at top volume “DOOR. OPEN.” I’ve never seen a system so irritating 😆
According to Victoria Police in Australia, securing all property entry points is essential. This means locking doors, both internal and external garage ones, windows, pet doors, gates, sheds, even skylights. Even your mailbox should be secured. A moment of carelessness, like forgetting to lock a back door, can be enough for a thief to slip in.
One of the easiest security tips is also the most ignored: don’t leave spare keys hidden outside. No flower pot or fake rock can really fool an experienced burglar. Remove any hidden keys and make sure window locks are not left with the key inserted. A secure house begins with removing such easily exploitable entry options.
#10
Depressed Lesbian(she/they/he) 5 months ago (edited)
Huh. Interesting thought. Maybe it’s like an adrenaline thing? Once you start you can’t stop?
#12
Melissa Harris 5 months ago (edited)
The answer is to live in a good building. That's it. Having controlled access and neighbors that won't buzz in everyone and their dog. Most apartments are broken into by someone let in by a tennet. Only other thing is to make sure you're door locks securely. Unless you live in an older building with an external fire escape or exterior access apartment windows are usually inaccessible.
Lock systems also need updating, ideally every three years. Replacing old locks with smart versions can greatly improve home security. Today’s smart locks come with features like keyless entry, app-based monitoring, and even built-in cameras. These provide not just control but also visual proof of anyone approaching your door.
#14
Wild Cream 5 months ago
OP is a very interesting person. (Not exactly a compliment but this peek into the mind of a thief is fascinating)
While CCTV won’t stop a burglary, it can still play a vital role in catching a culprit. UK police emphasize its value when combined with clear boundaries around your property. Modern systems linked to your smartphone can send alerts if someone crosses that line. It's not about paranoia, it’s about preparedness.
#18
Wild Cream 5 months ago
My bf doesn’t live with me but I keep a pair of his old work boots in my doorway for this same reason (he’s a big boy with big feets)
If you have expensive valuables at home, get a safe. It’s a worthwhile investment that can protect your most precious items. Whether it’s jewelry, documents, or emergency cash, safes add another layer of security. Choose a bolted-down version so burglars can’t just carry it off.
#19
meow point1 5 months ago
Honestly, that censoring makes it seem like it's a shop that sells naughty movies.
#20
StrangeOne 5 months ago
Open houses. Never agree to open houses. They're a magnet for anyone to come in and scope out your home. They may not steal anything during the open house, but they may be rummaging and come back.
#22
Another often-overlooked tip: don’t broadcast travel plans online. Posting “Off to Bali for 2 weeks!” might sound fun, but it’s also an open invitation to burglars. Save the vacation photos for after you’re back. Letting the world know your house is empty is a serious risk.
#24
HearditontheX 5 months ago
The art of theft Nope just a stinkin thief that steals stuff that people WORK to buy
#25
Lowrider 56 5 months ago
Let's just say i was very familiar with a small group of burglars. They ALWAYS did their burglaries in the daytime. After 10am but before 3pm.
#26
Always stay alert, especially if there’s been suspicious activity in your neighborhood. Talk to your neighbors and keep an eye on each other’s properties. Even small things like a stranger walking around the block a few times can be worth noting. Being cautious could help prevent a crime.
And finally, pay attention to tips shared by these former burglars themselves. Their insights are surprisingly practical. Out of all the advice, which one do you think is most useful?
#28
Wild Cream 5 months ago
I genuinely can’t say I wouldn’t do the same if I was at that point. (Feel free to downvote me, this is pure honesty)
#30
Wild Cream 5 months ago
My mum works at a library. They caught a guy doing weird bomb threats because he used a library computer and they have time stamps and cameras. Just saying 🤷♀️
#31
#32
Kari Panda 5 months ago
I would not want a person with such little empathy as my physician… Sure people can change, but it doesn’t seem like this person sincerely regrets what they did.
#33
Wild Cream 5 months ago
There’s no way to apologize or make up what OP did to their victims, but hopefully they’ve decided to live a better life and be kinder to others moving forward and maybe try to do some good thing s
#34
#35
Danni 5 months ago
He made 150-200K in 8 years? Thats 25k a year. that's less than 2100 a month. 160 hours a month that's $13 an hour, a bit over the federal minimum wage (lower than the minimum wage in at least 20 states). Is it worth it as a "career thief"? not much of a career is it.?! This should be #1 so people know how little this is worth.
#38
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What do you think ?
The_Nicest_Misanthrope 5 months ago
I know FormerBurgles said he feels guilty, but the way he speaks in most of his replies, I'm seriously not buying it. Disgusting.
Littlemiss 5 months ago (edited)
He has ni conscience at all. I heard this b.s syrup from a con who defended a burglar who stole from a family who owned a small store. She said oh well the burglar needed to eat too. They stole a whole truck load of food, cased the place for delivery times etc. I pointed out the owner of the shop isn't rich either, their bills are now increased as a result and they too have children to feed. She tried again and I replied oh so if it happened to you it'd be fine it would be just fine. Her jaw dropped in disgust. She pointed out she wasn't racist but.. because the family effected wasn't her skin color so it was ok.
Load More Replies...
Wild Cream 5 months ago
Interesting OP. This isn’t me condoning anything he’s done but I find it fascinating getting a glimpse into his thought process.
T'Mar of Vulcan 5 months ago
Electric fence, electronic gates, sensors all round and inside the house, exterior lights on every side, an alarm system and armed response. Take a wild guess where I live.
The_Nicest_Misanthrope 5 months ago
I know FormerBurgles said he feels guilty, but the way he speaks in most of his replies, I'm seriously not buying it. Disgusting.
Littlemiss 5 months ago (edited)
He has ni conscience at all. I heard this b.s syrup from a con who defended a burglar who stole from a family who owned a small store. She said oh well the burglar needed to eat too. They stole a whole truck load of food, cased the place for delivery times etc. I pointed out the owner of the shop isn't rich either, their bills are now increased as a result and they too have children to feed. She tried again and I replied oh so if it happened to you it'd be fine it would be just fine. Her jaw dropped in disgust. She pointed out she wasn't racist but.. because the family effected wasn't her skin color so it was ok.
Load More Replies... Wild Cream 5 months ago
Interesting OP. This isn’t me condoning anything he’s done but I find it fascinating getting a glimpse into his thought process.
T'Mar of Vulcan 5 months ago
Electric fence, electronic gates, sensors all round and inside the house, exterior lights on every side, an alarm system and armed response. Take a wild guess where I live.
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