You might think keeping the lights off or locking your doors is enough to deter burglars, but criminals today have gotten much smarter. They’re not just prowling neighborhoods at night or kicking in back doors. They’re studying signs burglars look for—and they’re using ordinary, everyday objects to figure out who’s home and who’s not. These seemingly harmless items can signal an empty house faster than a social media post. If you want to protect your home, it’s time to take a closer look at what you’re unintentionally revealing.
Signs Burglars Look For
1. Packages Left on the Porch
A pile of Amazon boxes or takeout flyers by your front door may seem harmless, but to a burglar, it’s a clear signal. Unattended deliveries tell criminals that no one’s been home to collect them, especially if they’re sitting for multiple days. Porch pirates aren’t the only ones watching for this; experienced burglars often scout homes based on package buildup. Even a single box left for too long can suggest the homeowner is away. Consider a video doorbell, a delivery locker, or a neighbor who can collect your packages when you’re out.
2. Newspapers or Flyers Stuffed in the Door
Old-school burglars still use old-school tactics—and one of their favorites is the newspaper trick. They’ll insert a flyer or door hanger and check back a day or two later. If it’s untouched, it’s a big red flag that no one’s been home. This low-effort tactic is surprisingly effective and still common in both suburbs and city neighborhoods. Always remove door clutter promptly, and consider suspending newspaper delivery if you plan to be away.
3. Unmoved Trash Cans
Another classic telltale sign is the trash can—or rather, the lack of one. If everyone on the block has brought theirs in and yours is still out, it suggests you’re not home to do it. Likewise, if your cans are empty when everyone else’s are full, burglars might assume you missed trash day because you were away. These subtle signs burglars look for are easy to overlook but highly revealing. Ask a trusted neighbor to handle your bins if you’re gone for more than a couple of days.
4. Cars That Never Move
A car that’s been parked in the same spot for days—or noticeably missing—can tip burglars off. Even worse, a dusty windshield or unmoved tire marks show that no one’s touched the vehicle. Some criminals even leave discreet markings on tires or bumpers to see if they’ve moved. Whether you leave a car behind or take it with you, be aware of how its presence—or absence—looks from the street. If possible, ask a friend to occasionally reposition your car or use a timer to simulate activity around the driveway.
5. Open Curtains With No Movement
Burglars often peer into windows to gauge home activity. If curtains are drawn open but there’s no visible movement or light for days, that can be a dead giveaway. During the day, a lack of interior activity raises suspicion. At night, a consistently dark home—especially with the TV and lights off—is one of the easiest signs burglars look for. Use timers for lights or smart bulbs that turn on and off randomly to make your home seem lived-in.
6. Overgrown Lawns or Untouched Snow
Seasonal cues can be just as telling as anything else. A lawn that hasn’t been mowed or snow that’s remained unshoveled screams, “No one’s here.” These environmental indicators are subtle but powerful in signaling absence. Some burglars even look for uncollected leaves in the fall as a sign of neglect. Schedule a landscaping service or have a neighbor maintain appearances while you’re away to avoid drawing unwanted attention.
7. Social Media Posts Announcing You’re Away
One of the most modern and overlooked signs burglars look for comes directly from homeowners themselves—public social media posts. Sharing vacation pics or travel plans in real-time tells anyone watching that your house is currently empty. While your friends might “like” your beach photo, criminals could be mapping their next target. Adjust your privacy settings, or better yet, wait until you’re back to share. Bragging about your getaway shouldn’t cost you your valuables.
If It Looks Empty, It Becomes a Target
Burglars don’t need to break windows or pick locks to figure out which homes are vulnerable. They rely on these subtle, overlooked signs burglars look for—from your trash bin to your Instagram post—to know when it’s safe to strike. By becoming more mindful of how your home appears from the outside, especially when you’re away, you can drastically reduce your risk. A few small changes in routine can keep your home off a burglar’s radar—and your family safe.
Have you ever spotted signs someone was watching your home, or learned a home safety tip the hard way? Share your story in the comments to help others stay alert and secure.
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