Intrusions no longer happen by chance. Understanding the methods of thieves is essential to protect your home in 2026. Modern burglars exploit weak points like back doors, windows, garages, and times when the house is empty. Using visible alarms, cameras, and detectors significantly reduces the risk of theft.
The absence of surveillance cameras, motion detectors, or an active security system greatly facilitates intervention. A well-installed home alarm, combined with deterrents, plays a key role in preventing theft and significantly reduces risks before an incident even occurs.
1. Rapid Reconnaissance: The First Step in Any Intrusion
Reconnaissance is one of the most common methods used by thieves. In less than ten seconds, an intruder can assess a property:
- no visible cameras
- no lights on
- exposed patio door
- lack of movement
They also observe daily routines, uncollected packages, and repeated periods of absence.
- A visible camera deters the vast majority of thieves.
- A house without any apparent security system becomes an easy target!
2. The Patio Door: The Most Common Intrusion Method
Among thieves’ methods, access through the patio door remains the most frequently used. Intruders generally operate from the back of the house, out of sight, by manipulating the latch or discreetly breaking a corner of the glass.
- This technique is quick, silent, and difficult to detect without specialized equipment.
- A combination of a glass break detector and an outdoor camera significantly enhances home security.
3. The Patio Door: The Number One Weak Point
Among thieves’ methods, accessing a patio door remains the most common. Intruders generally operate from the back of the house, out of sight, by manipulating the latch or discreetly breaking a corner of the glass.
- This technique is quick, silent, and difficult to detect without the right equipment.
- A combination of a glass break detector and an outdoor camera significantly enhances home security.
4. Targeted and Controlled Glass Breakage
Contrary to popular belief, thieves don’t smash windows loudly. They use precise tools to create a controlled break, discreet enough not to alert the neighbors.
- Once the glass is open, they unlock the window and enter.
- A glass break detector triggers an instant alert.
5. Breaking Back Doors Quickly
Side and back doors are often less robust. With just a screwdriver, an intruder can pick a lock in seconds.
- An unprotected door becomes a direct entry point.
- Camera + door sensor = effective barrier.
6. Garage door intrusion: an underestimated vulnerability
Automatic garage doors represent a major vulnerability. Using a hook or a metal rod, thieves can access the emergency handle and open the door effortlessly.
- A garage door sensor is essential.
- A driveway camera acts as an immediate deterrent.
7. Hacking poorly secured smart devices
Some modern thieves exploit technological vulnerabilities: poorly secured Wi-Fi networks, weak passwords, or outdated cameras.
These risks underscore the importance of professional home security, using encrypted and properly configured systems.
8. Intrusion During a Few Seconds of Absence
Many thefts occur when occupants are briefly absent: walking the dog, going to the car, taking out the trash. Thieves observe and act immediately.
- A system must remain activated, even for just a few minutes.
- The motion detector covers these quick intrusions !
9. Intrusions During Vacations
Unoccupied homes are easy to identify. No cars, lights off, no movement: all clues exploited by thieves.
Automation, smart lighting, and connected cameras allow you to maintain effective home security even remotely.
10. Thieves’ Methods Related to Poorly Secured Technologies
Package thefts have become common. Thieves target homes without video doorbells and act in seconds.
- A smart video doorbell almost completely eliminates this risk.
Home security: why a visible system makes all the difference
Modern thieves rely on:
- speed
- discretion
- the absence of visible protection
A modern alarm system, combining cameras, detectors, monitoring, and home automation, transforms a vulnerable home into a deterrent.
FAQ – Security and alarm systems
No. Cameras must be combined with detectors and an alarm system to be truly effective.
Yes. Visibility is one of the most powerful deterrents.
Absolutely. The fastest intrusions often occur in less than a minute.
No. They are designed to be simple, automated, and remotely accessible.
Modern security demands modern solutions.
The methods of thieves continue to evolve, and so must your home protection. A visible and well-installed alarm system, smart cameras, and motion detectors can prevent most break-ins. Protect your home before it becomes a target. Request a free assessment in less than 20 seconds with Solution Alarme Plus.