With burglary rates on the rise, it’s more important than ever for homeowners to stay vigilant and strengthen their home security. Here’s an overview of what burglars typically target during a break-in and how you can protect these high-value items.
A Rise in Home Break-Ins
Recent data from the Victorian Crime Statistics Agency (CSA) reveals that residential burglaries have increased by 16% from 2022 to 2023. Incidents have risen from 21,752 to 25,260, reversing a decade-long trend of decreasing break-ins.
Bambi Gordon, CEO of Neighborhood Watch Victoria, highlights the need for heightened awareness. “We’re seeing burglars target specific streets until police and community action force them to move on,” says Gordon. With the average burglary lasting only eight minutes, thieves often take items that are visible or easily accessible, such as those near doors or windows.
Here’s what burglars commonly look for—and how to safeguard these items.
1. Car Keys
With over 20,000 vehicles stolen in Victoria in 2023, car theft remains a significant problem. Burglars often look for keys left near entrances or in easily accessible places, allowing them to quickly steal cars from driveways or garages.
Tip: Historically the experts have advised that you store your car keys out of sight and ideally locked away in a drawer or safe, however, some police are now recommending that you leave your keys in a visible location to allow thieves to quickly locate them and minimise the amount of time they spend in your house.
2. Cash
Cash is one of the most appealing targets for burglars due to its untraceable nature and immediate usability. Leaving cash in obvious locations like kitchen countertops or near doors increases the risk of theft.
Tip: If you need to keep cash at home, store it in a hidden secure safe, and avoid placing it in easy-to-find locations.
3. Jewellery
Jewellery such as rings, bracelets, and watches are high on burglars’ lists because they are small, valuable, and easy to conceal. These items can quickly be sold, making them a prime target.
Tip: Same as the advice on cash, Keep your jewellery stored in a locked drawer or hidden safe.
4. Laptops and Tablets
Portable electronics are highly attractive to thieves because they are lightweight, easy to resell, and often hold sensitive personal information that could be used for identity theft.
Tip: When not in use, store your laptop or tablet in a secure, hidden location. Back up important files regularly and install tracking software to help locate the device if it is stolen.
5. Passports
Although less commonly stolen, passports are still valuable to burglars as they can be used for identity theft or fraud. A stolen passport can enable criminals to create false identities or commit financial fraud.
Tip: Store your passport in a hidden secure place, such as a locked drawer or safe, and report any stolen documents immediately to the relevant authorities.
6. Mobile Phones
Mobile phones are easy to steal and sell quickly. They also store a wealth of personal data, including banking information and social media accounts, making them valuable for identity theft or fraud.
Tip: Keep your phone out of sight when at home and secure it with strong passwords or biometric authentication. Enable remote wiping in case of theft.
7. Online Shopping Deliveries
With the rise of online shopping, there has been an increase in “porch piracy”—where thieves steal packages left on doorsteps. Opportunistic burglars may follow delivery vans and take parcels before homeowners can retrieve them.
Tip: Opt for deliveries that require a signature, use parcel lockers, or have packages delivered to a trusted neighbour. Installing security cameras around your property can also deter thieves and help identify them in case of theft.
Improving Your Home Security
Start by assessing your home’s weak points. Simple precautions like keeping doors locked, securing windows, and installing security systems such as alarms or motion-sensor lights can significantly improve your home’s security. For a more personalised assessment, consider taking the “How Safe Is My Place?” quiz, which offers tailored security tips.
At Jim’s Security, we offer high-quality and affordable security solutions for your home including security cameras and intrusion alarms.
