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Protecting Your Home from Trespassers and Burglars: A Practical Guide to the Best Tricks for 2025

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2025/12/2 .. practical-guide-to-the-best-tricks-for-2025.html
  Published in House and Home on Wednesday, December 24th 2025 at 4:24 GMT by CNET

Protecting Your Home from Trespassers and Burglars: A Practical Guide to the Best Tricks for 2025

Home burglary rates have surged in the past decade, with the FBI reporting more than 7 million residential burglaries in 2023 alone. The numbers are sobering, but the good news is that most break‑ins can be prevented with a few simple, well‑chosen security measures. In a recent CNET feature, security analyst and DIY enthusiast Jordan Brennan lays out his “top tricks” for keeping intruders at bay. His advice balances high‑tech solutions with practical, low‑cost habits, making it accessible to homeowners of all budgets. Below is a comprehensive, 500‑word summary of the article, enriched with context from the linked sources.

1. Install Smart Locks and Keyless Entry Systems

Brennan opens with a reminder that modern “smart” locks are a game changer. Unlike traditional deadbolts, smart locks let you monitor every entry event in real time, and many can be controlled via a smartphone app. By logging who enters and when, you can quickly spot suspicious activity even if you’re not home.

• Why it matters: According to a 2023 CNET review of the August Smart Lock Pro, the device can detect a forced‑entry attempt and send instant alerts.
• Implementation tip: Pair your lock with a home‑automation hub (e.g., Amazon Echo or Google Home) to receive voice‑activated notifications.

2. Use Motion‑Activated LED Lighting

A brightly lit front porch is a deterrent. Brennan points out that motion‑activated LED lights keep a watchful eye on your doorstep without drawing the attention of a burglar. When the lights go on, a thief will think twice—many prefer darkness to conceal their movements.

• Featured product: The Philips Hue Outdoor Motion Sensor is highlighted for its durability and ease of integration with existing smart‑home ecosystems.
• Practical tip: Position the sensor to cover both the main entrance and any side doors. Consider a solar‑powered unit if you have limited electrical outlets.

3. Install a Smart Doorbell with Two‑Way Audio

A doorbell with a camera and two‑way audio not only lets you see who’s at the door but also lets you communicate with them remotely. Brennan emphasizes the psychological barrier: the mere presence of a camera makes intruders nervous and less likely to attempt a forced entry.

• Recommended model: The Ring Video Doorbell 4 is praised for its high‑resolution footage and night‑vision capability.
• Setup hint: Place the camera at eye level to capture clear faces. Link it to a notification system that can alert you even when you’re on vacation.

4. Install a Home Security System

While DIY cameras are great, a comprehensive alarm system offers a layered defense. Brennan recommends systems like SimpliSafe or ADT that include door/window sensors, motion detectors, and a central monitoring unit. He notes that most modern systems can be integrated with your smartphone, giving you instant alerts and the ability to arm or disarm the system remotely.

• Pros: Quick response from professional monitoring services, which can dispatch police or fire units.
• Cons: Some systems have monthly monitoring fees; however, the peace of mind often outweighs the cost.

5. Secure Doors and Windows

The foundation of any security plan is strong doors and windows. Brennan advises:

• Deadbolts: Ensure that every external door has a deadbolt that cannot be forced open from the inside.
• Security bars or shutters: For high‑risk areas, installing removable security bars on ground‑floor windows can deter burglars.
• Reinforced glass: Double‑glazed or laminated glass resists shattering.

He also cites a recent CNET article on Home Security Tips, which highlights the importance of checking for back‑door access points—often overlooked by homeowners.

6. Use a Peephole or Video Doorphone

If you prefer a low‑tech option, a simple peephole is effective. Brennan suggests upgrading to a video doorphone for better visibility, especially during the night. The device should be positioned so you can see the whole front of the house.

• Additional advantage: Some models include motion sensors that alert you when someone is at the door even if they don’t knock.

7. Landscaping as a Defensive Measure

Intruders often take advantage of shady corners or dense shrubbery. Brennan recommends trimming back bushes and planting thorny or tall plants near potential entry points. By eliminating cover, you reduce the opportunity for stealthy approaches.

• Practical tip: Use low‑maintenance shrubs like Juniper or Boxwood that provide both privacy and visibility.

8. Join a Neighborhood Watch

Community vigilance is one of the most cost‑effective ways to deter crime. Brennan recounts a recent neighborhood in Chicago that reduced burglaries by 30 % after forming a watch group. By sharing information with neighbors, you create a network that can spot suspicious activity and report it promptly.

• How to start: Organize a meeting at the local community center and sign up with a reputable watch program like NeighborhoodScout or Nextdoor.

9. Keep Valuables Out of Sight

A visible safe or a hidden storage area can discourage thieves. Brennan suggests using a lockbox or a small safe in a less obvious location. Avoid displaying expensive items like cameras or jewelry in windows or near the front door.

10. Create an Emergency Plan

The final trick is preparation for the worst case. Brennan advises drafting a clear emergency plan that includes:

• Who to call (local police, emergency services).
• Where to go inside the house (a “safe room” with reinforced doors and no windows).
• How to communicate with loved ones (using text or messaging apps to minimize radio interference).

He cites a CNET piece on Emergency Preparedness that offers downloadable checklists to help families stay ready.

Bringing It All Together

Jordan Brennan’s article is a practical playbook that blends technology with everyday habits. The key takeaway? Layered security—combining smart devices with physical safeguards and community support—provides the best defense against trespassers and burglars. Whether you’re a tech‑savvy homeowner or a cautious beginner, these tricks can be adapted to your living situation, budget, and risk level.

Takeaway: Invest in a smart lock and camera system, back them up with motion‑sensing lights, secure your doors and windows, and involve your neighbors. By creating a visible deterrent and a solid emergency plan, you’ll turn your home into a fortress that burglars are unlikely to target.

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