'I took A Wristwatch And A Laptop', Weird Theft Message To Owner Will Force You To Improve Your Home Security

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A peculiar burglary took place in Shanghai, China, where a thief only stole valuable items but also left a note for the owner. The incident occurred mid May at an office building in the city, reports the South China Morning Post (SCMP).

The thief, identified by his surname Sang, entered the building by scaling the outer wall and stole a watch and an Apple MacBook. In a surprising turn of events, Sang left a note for the office owner suggesting they improve their anti-theft system.

Thief's Message To The Owner

Sang gathered mobile phones and laptops, placed them on a desk, and wrote a message in a notebook which he left open under the pile of devices. The note read: "Dear boss, I took a wristwatch and a laptop. You should improve your anti-theft system. I did not take all the phones and laptops, fearing it might hurt your business," according to police. Sang even offered to return the stolen items if contacted and provided his phone number.

The Shanghai police acted quickly and apprehended Sang within hours of the burglary using public surveillance cameras and his phone number. He was caught on a train leaving Shanghai with all the stolen items in his possession. Sang is currently in police custody.

Bizarre burglaries are not unheard of; last year, a thief in China's Yunnan fell asleep during a break-in and had to be nudged awake by police before being arrested. In another case from 2022 in Chongqing, southwestern China, a burglar stole various items from a company but left behind a note claiming he was only borrowing them and promised to return them within three days along with a 1,000-yuan (Rs 11,000 approx.) "thank you fee." Despite his request not to call the police, authorities were contacted anyway.

This calls for the need to upgrade home security, especially for home and property owners, who want to protect their families and belongings from potential threats. We have listed numerous measures you can implement to make your home more secure and deter potential thieves. Check out the effective strategies to upgrade your home security and safeguard your property against intruders.

1. Conduct A Security Audit

Before making any upgrades, conduct a thorough security audit of your home. Walk around your property and identify potential vulnerabilities, such as weak locks, poorly lit areas, and easy points of entry. Consider seeking the help of a professional security consultant to get an expert assessment. A security audit will help you prioritize which areas need immediate attention and improvement.

2. Install High-Quality Locks

Investing in high-quality locks is one of the most effective ways to secure your home. Replace old or flimsy locks with heavy-duty deadbolts on all exterior doors. Consider using smart locks, which offer keyless entry and can be controlled remotely via a smartphone app. Ensure that all windows, especially those on the ground floor, have secure locks as well. Sliding glass doors should be reinforced with a security bar or dowel in the track to prevent forced entry.

3. Reinforce Doors And Windows

Intruders often target doors and windows as entry points, so reinforcing them is essential. Install a solid core or metal door for all exterior entrances. Use longer screws for the door frame and strike plate to make it more resistant to forced entry. For windows, consider using laminated or tempered glass, which is harder to break. You can also install window security film, which adds an extra layer of protection.

4. Install A Security System

A comprehensive security system is a crucial component of home protection. Modern security systems offer a range of features, including motion sensors, door and window sensors, security cameras, and alarm systems. Opt for a system that includes 24/7 monitoring, so you're alerted immediately in case of a breach. Many systems also allow for remote monitoring via smartphone apps, giving you peace of mind when you're away from home.

5. Use Security Cameras

Security cameras act as both a deterrent and a tool for capturing evidence in case of a break-in. Install cameras at key points around your property, such as entrances, driveways, and backyards. Ensure that the cameras are visible to deter potential intruders. Opt for cameras with high resolution, night vision, and motion detection features. Some advanced cameras offer two-way audio, allowing you to communicate with visitors or potential intruders.

6. Improve Outdoor Lighting

Well-lit exteriors make it harder for intruders to approach your home unnoticed. Install motion-activated lights around your property, focusing on entry points and dark areas. Solar-powered lights are an eco-friendly option that provides consistent illumination. Consider using smart lighting systems that allow you to control outdoor lights remotely, giving the appearance that someone is home even when you're away.

7. Secure Your Garage

Garages are a common target for burglars, as they often contain valuable items and may provide access to the main house. Ensure that your garage door is equipped with a sturdy lock and consider installing a smart garage door opener that you can control remotely. Keep the garage door closed when not in use and cover windows to prevent intruders from seeing inside. Secure any doors leading from the garage to the house with a deadbolt lock.

8. Install A Video Doorbell

Video doorbells are an excellent addition to your home security system. They allow you to see and communicate with visitors before opening the door. Many video doorbells include motion detection and recording features, providing an extra layer of security. You can monitor and respond to visitors in real-time via your smartphone, even when you're not at home.

9. Use Smart Home Technology

Smart home technology can enhance your home security by providing greater control and automation. Smart locks, lighting, cameras, and alarms can be integrated into a single system that you can manage from your smartphone. Set schedules for lights and locks, receive alerts for suspicious activity, and control devices remotely. Smart home systems can also integrate with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant for added convenience.

10. Maintain Your Property

A well-maintained property is less attractive to potential intruders. Keep your yard tidy and trim any overgrown bushes or trees that could provide cover for burglars. Ensure that gates and fences are in good condition and properly secured. Avoid leaving tools or ladders outside, as they can be used to gain access to your home.

11. Establish A Neighborhood Watch

A strong community can be a powerful deterrent to crime. Establish or join a neighborhood watch program to keep an eye on suspicious activities and share information. Neighbors looking out for each other can quickly identify and report potential threats. Regular communication and cooperation with your neighbors can create a safer environment for everyone.

12. Protect Your Wi-Fi Network

Securing your home's Wi-Fi network is crucial, especially if you use smart home devices. Use a strong, unique password for your Wi-Fi network and enable WPA3 encryption. Regularly update your router's firmware to protect against vulnerabilities. Consider setting up a separate guest network for visitors to prevent them from accessing your main network and smart devices.

13. Keep Valuables Out Of Sight

Don't make your home an easy target by leaving valuables in plain sight. Use curtains or blinds to obscure the view inside your home, especially at night. Store expensive items like electronics, jewelry, and cash in a safe or hidden location. Avoid posting about your possessions or travel plans on social media, as this information can be used by burglars to plan a break-in.

14. Use A Safe For Important Documents

Invest in a home safe to protect important documents and valuables. Choose a safe that is fireproof and securely anchored to prevent it from being easily removed. Use the safe to store items such as passports, legal documents, and valuable jewelry.

15. Regularly Review and Update Security Measures

Home security is an ongoing process that requires regular review and updates. Stay informed about the latest security technologies and best practices. Periodically test your security system and replace batteries in devices as needed. Assess your security measures at least once a year to ensure they remain effective and make adjustments as necessary.

Maintaining your property, protecting your Wi-Fi network, and keeping valuables out of sight further deter potential intruders. Remember, a proactive approach to home security is the best way to ensure the safety and well-being of your loved ones.