Criminologist Reveals Modern Home Invasion Tactics — And How Burglars Really Choose Their Targets

In today’s world of smart locks and video doorbells, you might think burglars have been pushed out of business. But according to criminologist James Lynch, former chairman of the Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice at the University of Maryland, criminals are adapting just as quickly as technology evolves.

In a recent interview, Lynch shed light on the surprising — and unsettling — ways burglars pick their targets and break into homes.

Unlocked Doors: The Easiest InvitationOne of the simplest tactics remains shockingly effective: checking for unlocked doors and windows. Inmates interviewed for a survey by KGW-TV admitted that most burglaries happen simply because someone forgot to lock up. If doors and windows are secured, many burglars opt to kick down a door rather than smash a window, as it draws less attention and poses fewer risks to them.

Signs of WealthHomes that appear affluent are often prime targets. "If there's evidence of affluence, where a burglar could get a good return on their investment, that type of home will attract burglars," Lynch explained. Sometimes, even small cues like expensive landscaping, luxury vehicles, or visible electronics can make a house more tempting.

Location MattersInterestingly, location also plays a big role. Single-family homes in the middle of a street — rather than on a corner — tend to be targeted more often, likely due to less visibility. In apartment complexes, however, corner units with two sides of exposure can actually be more vulnerable, offering burglars more options for hiding and escape.

The Risk of Repeat VictimizationAnother chilling finding: once a home is burglarized, it’s at higher risk of being targeted again within just 10 days. "Burglars might return because they spotted valuables they couldn’t carry the first time or because they know the security weaknesses haven’t been fixed yet," Lynch said. Even if a neighbor’s home is broken into, nearby houses are statistically more vulnerable immediately afterward.

The Garage: A Commonly Overlooked Entry PointBurglars also often use attached garages to enter homes, taking advantage of forgotten side doors or unsecured entryways from the garage into the house itself.

Best Defenses Against Break-InsWhile there’s no way to guarantee total protection, Lynch emphasized that the simplest defenses — like consistently locking doors and windows — are the most effective.Research also shows that homes with visible security systems, alarms, and cameras are far less likely to be burglarized. Motion-activated lighting and sturdy, windowless exterior doors provide an additional layer of deterrence.

The bottom line? Most burglaries are crimes of opportunity. Staying alert and taking basic precautions can go a long way toward keeping your home safe.

Source: CNET