What are the most common items stolen during break ins?
Despite all the advances in home security, burglaries still happen. 20% of Australian homes have been burgled (1) so to keep your possessions safe from sticky fingers and wandering eyes, here is a list of the most commonly stolen items; plus some handy tips to help you stay secure at home.
Staying in the know on high-value items and taking proactive steps can help to reduce the chances of becoming a burglary victim. Protect yourself and learn what thieves look for so you can better safeguard your property. After all, 31% of arrested burglars divulged that “improved security” has deterred them from break ins.
Top 10 stolen items
The most recent statistics show the top 10 items stolen in a burglary to be:
- Cash
- Laptops
- Jewellery
- Cameras
- Phones
- Wallets, handbags, purses
- Identification documentation
- TVs
- Computer and video game equipment
- Watches
Burglars may be on the hunt for larger items of value, but they're also after smaller objects that can be easily hidden and converted into cash.
Car key and vehicle theft
With car theft on the rise in Australia, it's important to be aware of burglars’ methods. A worrying statistic reveals a vehicle is stolen every 12 minutes and 70% are taken using your own keys! To make sure this doesn't happen to you, keeping car keys well hidden or out of easy sight and away from entrances can help protect them when unexpected intruders break into homes. Make sure that those valuables stay secure - keep one step ahead of potential thieves by making key access difficult for outsiders.
Protecting your home and property
Statistics(2) demonstrate that most burglars are researching their targets, as the average robbery only takes five minutes or less to complete. This shows how important it is to ensure your home security measures are up-to-date and effective. Some of the keys aspects of your home security that burglars look for are:
- Security alarms
- Security cameras
- Security doors and window screens
- Security patrols
- Back to base alarm monitoring systems
- Security lighting & motion sensors
In 2021, almost 240,000 Australian households(3) experienced a break-in; don’t become a statistic this year, make your property secure. To speak to our security specialist, call the Alltronic Security team on 07 3353 3248 or complete our online enquiry form today.
References:
1 - Budget Direct Home Burglary Survey & Statistics 2022
2 - Statista Research Department
3 - Australian Bureau of Statistics - Crime Victimisation, Australia