Guide to Preventing Home Invasion and Burglary

Safeguarding your home against property crimes can protect your loved ones and possessions. It might also prevent a substantial financial loss.

You can boost your home's protection by adopting preventive measures, such as fortifying exterior and interior security, leveraging smart technologies, finding the right insurance policy and practicing secure habits. Learn how to protect your home from break-ins, identify signs that you're at risk and what to do in the aftermath of a burglary or home invasion.

Although often used interchangeably, home burglaries and invasions differ. Home burglary refers to unauthorized entry into a dwelling area with the primary intention of stealing and is thus considered a crime against property. On the other hand, home invasion is an unauthorized entry into a residential structure to confront, intimidate, harm or terrorize the occupants. An invasion may also involve theft, but it's considered a crime against people, as violence or coercion often occur.

Most burglaries are crimes of opportunity — perpetrators choose easy targets to break into and rob — whereas invasions are typically targeted and involve a specific person or motive. Burglaries are more common than invasions. Understanding these distinctions can help you make an effective security plan and system for your home and family.

Although the actions of others are beyond our control, raising awareness about the prevalence and impact of home burglaries may encourage more people to take crucial measures that can deter break-ins and theft. Below are some key statistics and insights on burglaries in the U.S.

According to the FBI, one burglary occurs every 28.3 seconds, impacting more than a million victims every year. In 2021 alone, the total value of property loss due to home burglaries exceeded $733 billion. Reducing the likelihood of becoming a target is possible by taking proactive steps and changing your attitude toward home security.

Burglars choose easy targets, so making your home unappealing to thieves may help prevent it from being singled out. Since the exterior of your home is the first thing that others see, enhancing exterior security can significantly reduce potential vulnerabilities thieves may exploit.

The best home security system depends on specific circumstances. Make sure you assess your security needs first. Consult professionals to determine the most effective solution based on your home's layout and location. Then you can start implementing specific changes.

Your home's internal security is just as important as the exterior. When planning your home security system, implement these effective interior security strategies and steps:

Integrating technological solutions can help create a more comprehensive security strategy. In the U.S., 72% of home decision-makers have a home security device. The most popular options are video-enabled systems, such as video surveillance and video doorbells. Technology-based solutions, from smart security systems to remote monitoring and control, can help you feel safer in your home even while you're away.

Having home security systems may seem adequate for preventing burglaries, but it's also vital to ensure a financial safety net to help you recover from potential losses. Homeowners insurance can cover costs related to break-ins, including property damage and theft. In some cases, insurance providers also offer incentives and discounts to homeowners with security devices like alarms, surveillance cameras or smart home security systems.

An effective home security system can safeguard your home against burglaries. However, developing strong security habits is also essential. These don't have to cost you. Simple precautions like locking your doors and windows or knowing your neighbors can go a long way in keeping your loved ones safe.

Unoccupied homes are more vulnerable to break-ins. Implementing security measures during your absence may keep your property safe.

Burglars typically select their targets carefully and attack homes with a plan. Recognizing common warning signs that you're at risk of burglaries can help you take appropriate action to deter an incident.

A break-in might occur despite taking precautions. Here's what to do to financially recover in the aftermath of a break-in and feel safe again at home.

Preventing home invasions and burglaries requires extra precautions. MoneyGeek asked some industry experts to share tips and insights to help you protect your home.

Finding the right resources can help you better protect your home against burglaries and break-ins. MoneyGeek compiled some helpful resources and tools you can use.

• AARP: Learn more about home monitoring systems. See if a Do-It-Yourself package is right for your privacy concerns.
• AreaVibes: Check your neighborhood safety score based on crime rate, cost of living, employment, education and other relevant factors.
• Arizona State University Center for Problem-Oriented Policing: Learn more about home invasions and burglaries. Find out how to conduct local analysis to reveal factors contributing to community break-in problems.
• Crime Data Explorer: Stay updated on crime trends in your state and countrywide.
• CrimeProtect: Find the nearest police department or check crime incidents using this interactive crime map.
• Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency: Aside from physical security, homeowners should also ensure cyber security to avoid breaches. Get tips on cyber safety.
• Federal Trade Commission: Find the best home security system by learning about different scams and how to report them.
• Neighbors App: This free mobile app by Ring allows neighbors to interact with each other, share updates, submit anonymous reports and monitor incidents in the community.
• National Crime Prevention Council: Access crime prevention and personal safety tips. Get various information about home and neighborhood safety.
• SpotCrime: Check crime reports in your neighborhood or nearby communities. Receive daily and weekly alerts by setting up an email alert subscription for free.