5 Common Home and Car Mistakes Thieves Love

When it comes to burglary or car theft, criminals aren’t always masterminds—they often look for easy targets. A surprising number of successful thefts happen because of simple oversights that could’ve been avoided with a little more awareness.

At Nelson, Bryan, and Cross, we’ve seen firsthand how costly and traumatic theft can be. These are five common mistakes Alabama homeowners and drivers make that burglars and thieves count on—and what you can do to avoid becoming a victim.

1. Leaving Doors Unlocked (Yes, It Still Happens)

It may seem obvious, but you'd be surprised how many people forget to lock their doors. Whether it’s your car in the driveway or your backdoor during the day, unlocked entry points are a welcome sign for thieves.

What to do:
Always double-check that all doors (including garage, patio, and shed doors) are locked, even if you're home. Install deadbolts and upgrade to smart locks for added security.

2. Hiding a Spare Key in the Usual Spots

Fake rocks, doormats, and flowerpots are some of the first places a thief will check for a spare key. You may think you're being clever, but criminals know the classics—and they count on people sticking to them.

What to do:
Skip the fake rock and give your spare key to a trusted neighbor or invest in a secure key lock box with a code.

3. Leaving Valuables in Plain Sight

Leaving shopping bags, purses, wallets, or electronics visible through your car window is an open invitation. Thieves don’t need to steal your whole car—just a few items they can grab and go.

What to do:
Always remove valuables from your car or hide them in the trunk before reaching your destination. At home, avoid leaving laptops or other high-value items visible through windows.

4. Skipping Outdoor Lighting

A dark driveway or entryway gives thieves exactly what they want: cover. Poorly lit exteriors make it easier for criminals to approach undetected.

What to do:
Install motion-sensor lights around entry points, garages, and walkways. Bonus: They’re also great for personal safety when you arrive home at night.

5. Oversharing on Social Media

Announcing vacation plans, posting airport selfies, or showing off new purchases can signal to thieves that your home is unoccupied or that you’ve got something worth stealing.

What to do:
Wait until you return home to share your trip. Set your social media accounts to private and be mindful about what you're broadcasting publicly.

Final Thoughts

Most property crimes are crimes of opportunity. By correcting a few small habits, you can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a target. If you've already been the victim of theft or burglary, know your rights and get legal support to recover what you've lost.

Contact us today to speak with an experienced attorney about your rights, your insurance claim, or any legal concerns you may have after a break-in or theft.