Security cameras alone might not be enough to protect your home – discover how burglars can bypass 'smart' deterrents

It’s common knowledge that smart home security cameras, alarm boxes (either real or dummy ones), and branded deterrent signs send warnings to any would-be burglars. But are they enough? If your home and worldly possessions are worth protecting, is under-protecting your home worth the risk?

Security cameras are right at the top of the list of security measures which burglars hate, but that doesn't mean they're the be all and end all. All security cameras have blind spots. And more often than not, homeowners don’t pay for the subscriptions required to record footage on video doorbells and cameras - thieves are well aware of these smart security weaknesses.

While alarm signs and boxes and security cameras might deter opportunist thieves, professional burglars are wise to the fact that most systems aren't as watertight as they might seem.

If the potential for a good haul is there, they might take the risk and still try and break in, with the hope that you’re one of the many who have left their security subscriptions lapse or whose camera just doesn’t have the wide-angle required to pick up their movements.

How to beef up your security system

Rather than opting for a basic camera, it's well worth your time to invest to a system with more sensors, to ensure your whole home is protected

Take Verisure's Shock Sensor for starters. It's the ideal addition to any vulnerable opening to your property. Think doors, windows, and gates, wherever you place them - if someone tries to break in, hit, shake or tamper with the sensor, it will set off the alarm and alert you to any potential intruder. What’s more, with 24/7 monitoring, their team will assess the situation and if needed will contact emergency services on your behalf.

While you may already have security cameras inside as well as out, particularly if you have pets or young children, you can also use technology to capture still images when triggered. The one to beat is the award-winning GuardVision Photo Detector which uses infrared and photo detection technology to take bursts of photos of intruders.

Another brand we've been loving for help with how to prevent burglary is Arlo, and their Video Doorbell, Indoor Security Camera and Outdoor Wireless Camera come as part of Verisure's smart home security system.

Arlo’s Video Doorbell offers a much wider view (180º) than standard doorbells, while its Outdoor Cameras are extremely weather-resistant and provide you with a 130º view of the exterior of your home.

Other methods to keep your home secure

Whichever brand or system you choose, it's important to remember that 'smart' doesn't mean it can do everything. So for protecting your home and securing your garden from thieves, it's well worth using a range of methods.

Smart lighting with motion sensors is a great addition to any home security set up, and these can be easily woven in to whatever platform you use. However, there are analogue considerations, too.

Things as simple as securing doors with deadlocks or double locks, building a community network and making a home seem occupied can all help in keeping your space, possessions and family safe.