Burglars Go High Value, And Hi-Tech

Not so long ago, the average opportunist burglar was looking to escape with a VCR, or a DVD player, or a TV.  Then it was computers and laptops. Then tablets.

However, as the price of the latest technology continues to fall, so does the value of stolen goods.

For some of us, that’s good news. It means that life is difficult for the ‘average’ burglar and there’s less incentive for them to risk capture.

For others it’s not so good though.

With traditional burglaries generating less and less money, a new breed of more specialist thieves are taking over – targeting homes where they expect to find high value items such as gold, jewellery and cash.

These more savvy burglars are putting far more thought and time into planning their operations, marking potential targets in what have become known as ‘sticker scam’ burglaries.  Each target property is effectively labelled with a discreet sticker (often disguised as a simple advert) for them to return to later.

Once in, burglars use technology such as metal detectors to quickly identify their haul, and employ gangs of ‘runners’ to quickly dispose of stolen items to reduce the risk of being caught ‘red handed’.

Adam Webb, as spokesman for Esure, said, “The world of crime has moved into a modern era. Second-hand DVD players and other electronics have little resale value so these are no longer of any interest. Gold is their target and a decent haul can mean big money. These operations are planned and slick”.

whether your home is stocked with gold and diamonds, or it’s just your trusty laptop and a few personal items, our advice is always the same – NEVER give burglars an easy job!  Installing a proper alarm system that’s adequate to protect your home and your family will always reduce the chances of your home being targeted – whether it’s by the latest hi-tech villains or neighbourhood kids.

We hope you’ll never need it; but for an obligation-free conversation about how an alarm could protect you and your family, call us on 01254 739 255 or contact us here.