Four Ways You Might Be Compromising Your Own Home Security

Home security can be improved with a few simple hacks but can be compromised just as easily.

Online Compromises

It can be tempting to share snippets of your personal life online, but you need to proceed with caution. A revealing post online could leave you and your home security at risk. Before you post a picture of your home, make sure you cannot see anything that would help someone online easily identify your home. It's a good idea to not post a picture of the front of your house, but if you do, make sure to never post a picture with your house number or mailbox visible. And while you're at it, make sure that your name is nowhere on the outside of the house on the mailbox, doormat, or door decor.

You should also be wary of posting about your vacations until you get home. Predators will watch your online activity and case your house. When you post that you're out of town—they strike. We all want to see your beach selfies and Disneyland pictures, but make sure that you wait until you're home to post you and your mickey ears.

Basic Compromises

There are some basic home security tips that you can teach your family to keep your home safe. For instance, when you leave your home, make sure to lock all of the doors and windows—even if you are just running to the grocery store. Locking up is fast and easy, and can make a big difference for your home security. It's also important that you lock up at night. Even windows up a few stories can be targets for home invaders.

Keeping your garage closed is also a good home security tip. Even if you're home, an open garage gives people a peek at your possessions and valuable items. Garages are also an easy entry point for someone looking to rob your home. Cut off that access point by keeping your garage closed.

Don't hide keys on your property either, nobody is being fooled by fake rocks or keys taped to mailboxes. It's also important that you don't leave notes on your door letting a serviceman or a family member know that you've gone and will be returning shortly. It is also important to secure your sliding doors with a wood piece or pvc pipe in the bottom track to ensure that the door cannot be slid open at night.

Password Compromises

You want your kids to be able to remember your garage code or security system password, but it's important that the codes and passwords aren't obvious. Using dates like birthdays or anniversaries leaves you vulnerable. Dates that can be easily accessed online or in public records are not a good go-to. Work with your family to develop unique codes and passwords so that the family can all remember them while simultaneously keeping your family safe.

It's also a good idea to make sure that your kids know that sharing this information is a no-go. Help them understand, in an age-appropriate manner, the dangers of sharing private passwords and codes with anyone.

New House Compromises

Changing the locks when you move into a new home is a must. It's also important that you install your new security system with hidden wires so that a burglar cannot disconnect the security system. When moving into your new home you should also check to make sure that all entrances are well lit.

A little unconventional, try to burglarize your new home. While trying to find a way into your new space you will likely find a few flaws in your home security plan—even if you have a high-end security system. Finding these flaws can ultimately protect your possessions and your family.

Home security doesn't have to cost lots and can be more sophisticated than a DIY booby trap made of cans and string. As you DIY your way through your security process, make sure to be thoughtful and meticulous.