Do Fake Home Security Signs Work?

Everyone wants their home to feel safe and secure, but choosing the most effective way to protect it can be a daunting task. Home security systems—especially those that incorporate smart technology—can be expensive, and with so many options, it can be hard to decide what works best for you.

While equipment like motion sensors and cameras can deter crooks from breaking in or burglarizing your home, you may wonder if simply adding security system signs or stickers could do the trick—whether or not you actually have an alarm installed. As it turns out, placing a security system sign in your yard or a sticker on your window is a cost-effective way to deter burglars, but using fake emblems might put you in legal hot water—or worse.

Benefits of Using Fake Security Signs

It Saves Money

We get it, home security can be expensive. Not only do you have to pay money for each piece of equipment, but there’s a monthly or annual fee when you choose to have professional monitoring. Having 24/7 monitoring ensures you have trusted professionals on hand when you need it most. And depending on the company you choose, your home alarm may still work if you choose to cancel your monitoring service, though that choice comes with its own risks.

Most companies will work with your budget, so you have security that meets your needs. Some, like Brinks HomeTM, offer a rate-lock for the duration of your contract. You can always shop around to see which companies are offering specials or deals. You can also start small, and work with your chosen company to add more features to your system over time.

It’s Less Hassle

You may think all you have to do is buy a fake sign and stick it in your yard to deter criminal activity. There’s no need to install fancy equipment and deal with the hassle of continuously monitoring your space. Simple right? But this leave an ignore tactic isn’t a wise move in the long run. The time and energy you save now could come back to bite you later if there’s a break-in or legal woes.

When you purchase a legitimate security system, a professional installation technician will be on hand to set up and test your equipment, show you how to use it, and answer any questions you may have—freeing you of any labor worries. Plus, most state-of-the-art security companies have an app where you can easily manage and monitor your home straight from your smart device.

Some security companies also offer deals to first-time customers, like free equipment or discounted monitoring. Brinks Home, for example, provides free installation from our expertly trained technicians.

Risks of Using Fake Security Signs

It’s easy and affordable to put a fake home security sign in your yard, but a phony badge may do more harm than good. You may think posting a sign when you don’t have a real security system is enough to keep burglars at bay, but that’s far from the case.

Smart Burglars Can Spot the Difference

A real home security sign will have a legitimate brand’s logo. If you use a fake sign, an intelligent burglar may call your bluff. They can quickly search the Internet to verify if the company displayed on your sign is authentic, as well as see if the logo displayed is a reliable match. If your sign is flaunting a bogus brand, that will say to intruders that your home is most likely unprotected.

Some criminals will also take the time to scope out your house and learn your and your family’s routines to see if you have a home security system as advertised in your yard or window. If they realize you don’t, that leaves your home and valuables vulnerable.

You May Violate Copyrights

Copyrights protect artists and companies from losing money. When you purchase a home security system, that company will send you signs and stickers to display on your property as a visual way to communicate that your home is protected. When you use a sign that advertises a legitimate security company when you haven’t paid for their services, that’s technically copyright infringement.

If word gets out that you’re using a home security company’s name without their permission, they may have grounds to sue. Depending on the law, it could cost you lots of time and money. While it may prevent theft, ask yourself if purchasing a fake sign is worth the potential financial and legal risks.

A Fake Sign Can Hurt More Than It Helps

Some criminals may choose to ignore the yard sign and take the risk of getting caught, especially if they don’t believe your home is really protected. If you have a fake sign without an actual security system in place, thieves can easily break in and make off with precious belongings or worse. If you don’t have an alarm or security cameras installed, the police won’t be automatically alerted like it will be with professional monitoring, and you won’t have any footage to show them of the burglary that occurred.

Another problem with fake home security yard signs is that they can lead to a sense of false security. If, for instance, you have a habit of leaving the doors unlocked and the windows open, the sign might as well be a lawn decoration.

Fake Alarm Stickers Are Not Advisable

Like fake yard signs, it may be tempting to purchase bogus security stickers online. However, these cheap decals probably won’t fool a burglar, and they can also put you in legal limbo. A comprehensive security system from a reputable home monitoring company does more to ward off would-be intruders than any false burglar alarm decals. Instead of taking the chance on fakes or dupes, signing up with a professional home security company gives you access to real security yard signs and stickers.

Alternatives to Fake Security Signs

There are plenty of ways to protect your home so that you’re getting the most out of your security system. The type of equipment required, and the amount, will vary depending on your needs. For example, if you’re worried about porch pirates, you may want to consider a doorbell camera. If you have anxiety about people using your backyard pool when you’re not at home, outdoor cameras or smart lighting could be beneficial. There’s no one-size-fits all solution, but there are several customizable options available on the market to secure your home.

Security Cameras

Adding security cameras to your home is a great place to start. Indoor cameras will allow you to see activity going on inside your home when you’re not there—such as what your kids are up to—and some even allow you to communicate with those inside.

Outdoor cameras ensure the exterior of your home is well guarded. Typically, if a would-be intruder sees a camera mounted on the outside of your front door, they’ll think twice about burglarizing your home.

Sensors

There are a multitude of sensors out there, and all come with their own pros and cons. Motion sensors are usually tied to alarms or security cameras and are meant to ward off intruders. If they’re triggered, it’ll set off an alarm. Door and window sensors, by contrast, alert you when a specific door or window has been opened. It’s common to place a wireless sensor on your front door so you’re constantly aware of who is coming and going.

Smart Locks

Smart locks go far beyond your standard piece of metal. They can effortlessly sync with your smart home system, can be programmed for individual users, and some even come with facial recognition.

Smart Lighting

The amount of light produced by outdoor floodlights make it hard for burglars to go undetected. And when outdoor cameras detect motion, you can automate lights to quickly brighten designated areas. If someone makes a sudden movement, the lights will trigger and put the perpetrator on the spot. They may be able to run, but they won’t be able to hide.

Professional Monitoring

When you choose to go with a professional security company, it means you’ll have an extra layer of protection. With 24/7 monitoring available, you’ll always have someone on hand to help in case of a burglary. Don’t rely on just a yard sign, take the first step to getting a legitimate home security yard sign by contacting Brinks Home today.