Study Shows Ideal Break-In Targets

• News
• Published: 22 Jul 2010 in Household and Home Insurance

A survey of reformed ex-burglars, carried out by home insurance company More Than, has identified the perfect profiles that thieves are likely to target. 

According to the research, people who live in a detached home or bungalow, and those who drive a desirable car are the ideal targets for burglars. 

The reformed ex-conmen surveyed by More Than also revealed that those who discuss their whereabouts on social media sites or keep valuables in a bedside drawer offer ideal break-in opportunities. 

In research that will provide a wake-up call to many homeowners, around 90% of the reformed thieves said household burglary was an easy task as it posed few challenges. 

And all of those surveyed said there was no such thing as an impossible job. 

The majority of ex-burglars (68%) said they collected information about their target's home and daily routine in advance of committing a crime.  

Hidden house keys (78%) - in obvious places such as under doormats and in plant pots - are the primary lapses that burglars will look for to make an entry. 

The other common mistake made according to those in the know is leaving windows open (58%), especially during summer months when homeowners put a cooler house above security as their priority. 

In addition, criminals are increasingly embracing the latest social media trends to keep a track on potential targets.