Tricky tactics: Signs your home may be a target to thieves

(Ivanhoe Newswire) --- A home break-in occurs on average once every 30 seconds in the U.S. According to SafeWise, most burglaries happen in the middle of the day, and result in a loss of about $3,000.

There are many ways to boost home security from alarms, locks, and video cameras.

But experts say being vigilant is just as important. According to Home Hacks, thieves sometimes leave a sign they’re targeting a home.

An unexpected service call could be someone getting a closer look at the home or property. Thieves sometimes pose as someone from a security company to get information about the home’s current safety systems.

Another tactic is calling a landline or leaving an advertisement at the door to see when people are home. Looking for things out of place. If the front door mat is moved, someone could have been looking for a hidden key. Security experts say thieves also mark homes they’ve been watching using things like rocks, strange street markings, and even golf balls.

State Farm says to help deter burglars, keep bushes trimmed so there are fewer places for them to hide. While away ask a neighbor to get the mail, bring in trash cans, and clear sidewalks of snow in the winter. And don’t post travel plans on social media and be sure to turn off Geo-tagging and check-ins. This let’s would be thieves know precisely when you are not at home. So set your account to private and turn off GPS tracking.

Also, when it comes to social media. Using hashtags, such as hashtag vacation photos, allows cyber criminals a way to do a simple search and find out when you are traveling. Try and turn off your Geo when you’re out of your house. Go to the settings and turn off location sharing. Another tip from home hacks don’t leave boxes from expensive items like TVs or computers out where people can see even on trash or recycling pickup days.

Contributors to this news report include: Lindsay Dailey, Producer; Bob Walko, Editor.

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