These Days You Can Google Anything
September 30, 2011
While many of us use Google Maps to find directions and search for nearby retailers, some have turned to the online tool for less than honest acts. Burglars are now using it to target homes.
One Chicago man, Samuel Watson, has been arrested for doing just that. Police say he could be responsible for up to nine burglaries and stealing thousands in jewelry and electronics from suburban Chicago homes. Watson was finally caught when one home-owner found him trying to open a door to his home.
After he was arrested Watson confessed to using Google Maps to research his targets. Once he found a home he liked, he was then able to plan his heist and the best ways to escape.
Unfortunately, this isn’t the first time we’ve heard of the “bad guys” using the internet for their benefit (remember the Facebook burglar?). While social media sites invite you to share pictures, posts, etc. it’s important to not over-share.
You may want to tell your friends about that great concert you’re going to tonight, or the beautiful vacation you’re leaving for in a few days but keep in mind you’re also telling someone “I’m not going to be home.” Mistakes like these can make your home a target. Always wait until afterwards to share stories and pictures.
Here are some other quick and easy ways you can protect your home:
- Install proper lighting: use interior light timers and exterior lights to help keep your home nice and bright. Burglars like dark and desolate looking homes. They provide easy places to hide and keep the neighbors from seeing what’s really going on.
- Leave on a radio or TV: create the illusion that someone is home. Many burglars move on if they think the house is occupied.
- Tell your neighbors: if you’re going away for a week, or even just a night, rely on your neighbors to be your eyes while you’re not there.
- Consider home security: statistics prove that having a home security system decreases your chances of being burglarized. Wireless systems are easy to install and will provide peace of mind for you and your family.
