Criminologist Shares What Burglars Look For — And How to Make Your Home Invisible to Them

I’ll be honest — most people think a break-in could never happen to them. “I live in a safe neighborhood,” they say. Or, “My dog will scare them off.” I get it. I used to think the same way… until I spoke to a criminologist who’s studied burglar behavior for over two decades.

What he told me flipped everything I thought I knew about home security.

The truth is, burglars don’t always need to “break in.” Often, they’re walking right in — through unlocked doors, dimly lit yards, and careless social media posts.

And the worst part? The biggest mistakes homeowners make are so basic, they don’t even realize they’re doing anything wrong.

In this article, I’ll break down the top 5 habits that burglars look for, based on what real criminals have admitted in interviews, police reports, and security footage. These aren’t hypothetical “maybe” risks — these are the exact red flags that get homes targeted.

If you want to protect your family, your home, and everything inside it, read every section carefully. One of these could be the weak link you didn’t know you had.

Quick stat: A burglary happens every 25.7 seconds in the U.S. (Bankrate). That’s more than 3,000 homes a day. Let’s make sure yours isn’t one of them.

Mistake #1 – Leaving Doors and Windows Unlocked

I know it sounds obvious — “Of course I lock my doors.” But here’s what most people don’t realize: burglars don’t check once… they check twice, three times, and often during the day.

And many times, they find exactly what they’re looking for — an unlocked back door, a forgotten bathroom window, or a sliding glass door that sounds locked but actually isn’t.

When I asked a former burglar what made a home an easy target, he said this:

“I always checked the back door and the garage first. You’d be shocked how many were open.”

According to The Zebra, 34% of burglars walk in through the front door, and 23% use first-floor windows. Not break in — walk in.

It’s not laziness — it’s routine. You step out to take a call, unload groceries, or let the dog out, and boom — you forget. But that one moment is all it takes.

If you take nothing else from this article, take this: double check every single door and window before you leave — even if it’s just for 10 minutes. And at night, set a habit loop — walk the house, check locks, pull curtains, done.

Also, consider reinforcing doors with deadbolts, using pin locks for sliding glass doors, and installing basic contact sensors that alert you if anything’s left open.

Quick tip: If you leave your windows slightly open for ventilation, make sure they’re pinned — burglars look for that gap.

Mistake #2 – Overgrown Landscaping Providing Cover

I understand the appeal of lush greenery around your home. It offers privacy and aesthetic value. However, overgrown bushes and trees can inadvertently provide hiding spots for burglars, especially near windows and entry points.

According to SafeWise, burglars often exploit concealed entries and easy access points, making dense landscaping a potential risk.

What you can do:

• Trim shrubs and trees regularly, especially those near windows and doors.
• Install motion-sensor lighting to illuminate dark areas around your property.
• Consider using gravel paths near windows; the crunching sound can deter intruders.

Quick check: Walk around your property at dusk. Are there areas where someone could hide without being seen?

Mistake #3 – Visible Valuables Through Windows

Leaving valuables like electronics, jewelry, or cash in plain sight can tempt opportunistic burglars. According to Ackerman Security Systems, common items stolen during home burglaries include cash, electronics, and jewelry.

What you can do:

• Use curtains or blinds to obscure the view into your home, especially at night.
• Avoid leaving boxes from expensive purchases outside; they signal new valuables inside.
• Store high-value items in a safe or hidden location.

Quick check: Stand outside your home during the evening with the lights on inside. Can you see valuables through the windows?

Mistake #4 – Hiding Spare Keys in Predictable Spots

We’ve all done it — stashed a spare key under the doormat or in a flowerpot “just in case.” But here’s the brutal truth: that’s the first place a burglar will look. And if they find it? You’ve basically handed them an invitation.

In fact, in a list by Family Handyman, placing keys in fake rocks, mailboxes, under mats, or inside unlocked sheds is listed as one of the top home security mistakes people make.

Why? Because burglars are smart — they know all the clichés. And once they’re inside, they’re not just grabbing a few things. They’re moving fast, and they know what to look for.

If you truly need to have a spare key available:

• Give it to a trusted neighbor or friend
• Use a lockbox with a code (mounted, not loose)
• Better yet, go keyless with a smart lock — many are more affordable now than ever before

Also important: avoid labeling keys or hiding duplicates inside garages or vehicles — burglars check there too.

Want real-time alerts for things like breaking glass or smoke alarms? Arlo’s $9.99/month AI add-on just made that possible — making it a smart addition to any DIY security setup.

Mistake #5 – Oversharing on Social Media

you’re still gone — you might as well put up a sign that says, “Nobody’s home right now.”

Burglars aren’t just watching houses. They’re watching online.

In fact, a post on Ooma’s security blog explains how oversharing online can tip off criminals. They specifically mention that burglars monitor public profiles to find out when people are away from home.you’re still gone — you might as well put up a sign that says, “Nobody’s home right now.”

Burglars aren’t just watching houses. They’re watching online.

In fact, a post on Ooma’s security blog explains how oversharing online can tip off criminals. They specifically mention that burglars monitor public profiles to find out when people are away from home.

Worse? It’s not just about your beach pics. Even posting weekend plans or tagging your location in real-time can give away more than you think.

One former burglar told a reporter, “We knew when people left for holidays — they showed us.”

Here’s what to do instead:

• Post your trip photos after you’re home
• Don’t tag your real-time location
• Keep your privacy settings tight — or better, limit who can view stories and posts
• Avoid showing full views of your home’s layout, valuables, or entry points online

If you think it sounds paranoid — remember, most burglars prefer low-risk targets. Don’t give them a head start.

Ask yourself: Would you tell a total stranger when you’re leaving town? If not, don’t tell Instagram either.Worse? It’s not just about your beach pics. Even posting weekend plans or tagging your location in real-time can give away more than you think.

One former burglar told a reporter, “We knew when people left for holidays — they showed us.”

Here’s what to do instead:

• Post your trip photos after you’re home
• Don’t tag your real-time location
• Keep your privacy settings tight — or better, limit who can view stories and posts
• Avoid showing full views of your home’s layout, valuables, or entry points online

If you think it sounds paranoid — remember, most burglars prefer low-risk targets. Don’t give them a head start.

Ask yourself: Would you tell a total stranger when you’re leaving town? If not, don’t tell Instagram either.

Proactive Measures to Enhance Home Security

Let’s be real — locking your doors and pulling the blinds is a great start. But if you want to truly stay ahead, you’ve got to think like someone trying to break in.

Burglars look for the easiest win. Your job? Make your home feel like too much work.

Here’s what I personally recommend (and what experts back up too):

• Install motion-activated lights around all entry points.
• Upgrade to smart locks — especially for front and back doors.
• Set up a visible security camera — or at least a fake one if you’re on a budget.
• Use timers for lights if you’re out after dark or on vacation.
• Join a neighborhood watch group or use community apps like Nextdoor to stay informed.

One stat from SafeHome.org really drives this home: homes without security systems are 300% more likely to be burglarized.

It’s not about fear — it’s about making smart, low-effort moves that discourage anyone from even trying.

Quick tip: Don’t just “set it and forget it.” Re-check your security routine every few months. Burglars evolve — so should your strategy.

Conclusion

Let’s step back for a second.

We covered:

• How unlocked doors are practically an invitation
• Why your backyard might be helping intruders
• What leaving your valuables visible tells strangers
• How hiding a key under a mat is just asking for trouble
• And the dangers of announcing your absence online

Now the question is: what are you going to do about it?

You don’t need a fortress. You just need awareness, a few habit changes, and the willingness to think like a criminal before they think about you.

I wrote this not to scare you — but to give you the same insider edge I got from speaking to experts, reading reports, and analyzing real-world break-ins.

So here’s your next move:

Pick one weak point in your home security today — and fix it. Then tomorrow, fix one more. That’s how you build a safer home.

What’s one thing you’re changing after reading this?

Drop it in the comments — or better yet, share this with someone who needs a reminder to double-check their locks tonight.

Disclaimer: The tips shared in this article are for general awareness and informational purposes only. Always consult with licensed security professionals for personalized advice. Local laws and regulations regarding home surveillance and protection may vary.