The fascinating thread that has circulated among ex-thieves and victims of burglary revealed where valuables can be hidden, as well as the areas to avoid.
It was discussed worldwide on Reddit, and compilated by Bored Panda. One burglar admitted that they had to deal with it first.
An ex-carjacker said that it was a bad idea to save your address in the car’s satellite navigation. They would have all your keys, and they’d know you’re gone.
Meanwhile clever forum users revealed they had dummy safes, surveillance cameras and jewellery boxes to confuse robbers – and one even told how sticking a fake key under your doormat deters thieves because they immediately feel ‘rumbled’.
One fascinating thread that has circulated among ex-thieves and victims of burglary revealed where valuables can be hidden, as well as the areas to avoid.
One Reddit user posted a unique tip to prevent break-ins, and the thread received many replies.
This clever user said:A spare key, but not one that will open something of importance, can be glued under the doormat. It’s strange, right?’.
He explained: ‘This was something I used to do a few years back, in addition installing cameras. This is how I have seen it play out over the years. A thief goes to the door and checks the underside of the mat. He or she tries unsuccessfully to get the key. Then he/she backs up to check if there are any other people watching. It spooks them so they won’t look for another entry point.
Most importantly, clever forum users shared where they found the safest hiding spots for valuables.
One person shared that a false key placed under the doormat helps thieves avoid being robbed because it makes them feel “rumbled”.
However, if you do get robbed in your home, there are many places that can be stored your valuables.
Two unusual hideaways were suggested by one woman: “Former crime reporter, here. Both kitty litter or a Tampon Box are great. I have also witnessed false outlets which are as safe as a safe.
Many users also suggested that fake or real cameras be installed and that signs should warn dogs.
Meanwhile, the more chaotic users of the Post claimed they had been able to save hundreds of dollars by not being as tidy.
One reported that someone broke into the house of his family and took everything they could.
My room was the only exception, and it was messy. I had 800€ and golden earrings on my desk, just sitting there. The thieves broke into the house. The burglars didn’t make a sound or move.
Agreeing, another added: ‘Had my house burglarized by a so-called friend. He left out the most valuable item. it’s just a safe sitting on the laundry room floor. He missed it because I’m a scumbag and had it covered with a mountain of dirty clothes and towels. It saved me $35K because I didn’t keep it tidy.
Taking to the thread, a former burglar highlighted the importance of keeping your doors, windows and sheds locked, using security film on your windows and advised planting flowers with thorns under windows.
Then they added, “Any safe that isn’t bolted down or small enough to be carried by 1-2 persons isn’t secure at all.”
And many users suggested creating a diversion, with one revealing: ‘My cousin lives in a bad neighborhood, so she went to a thrift store, bought an obvious-looking jewelry box and a bunch of expensive looking costume jewelry that’s actually worthless and put it in the box.
“She places this prominently. She then leaves about 20 cents at the top. She then leaves a few 20s on top. This is so that if anyone breaks into her house, they can grab the key and run.
Another ex-thief said that it was not worth taking more than 15 minutes to open anything. He added: “I am going to check under your bed. I will dump any drawers I find. Your freezer is being checked. I’m checking under your bathroom cabinet.
He said, “Think about how that clever hiding place you saw in spy movies will work.” Watch spy movies. For you, it’s going to come down to security or convenience.
‘If it takes me more than a minute to get to something (and don’t forget I’m more than willing to break s**t to get to stuff) then it’s not worth my trouble. Your house should be gone in 15 minutes.
A second burglar cautioned against locking drawers.
This thread ended with home-owners being warned not to post holiday pictures on social media.
A user complained about key bowls at the door and said: “Don’t put key racks or bowls right next to your door!”
“The number of car burglaries in which the burglar just takes one step inside the home, grabs the keys and then runs away is quite sad.