The Illusion of Security: How Fake Security Items Put You at Risk

Many people live under the false assumption that the look of safety is the most important aspect of safety.  If they appear to be protected, no one will bother them.  Unfortunately, these people are all too often robbed and left with nothing.  Don’t be fooled by companies that tell you the presence of fake security equipment alone is enough to deter potential criminals.  Read on to understand the holes in their thinking.

First, many buildings utilize fake security cameras because they supposedly deter criminals who don’t want to be caught on camera.  These fake cameras are effective at deterring more innocent acts of vandalism by neighborhood kids only.

Second, stickers advertising alarm systems that don’t exist don’t provide any protection.  Telling a potential intruder you are protected might make them take a few precautions, but too many people rely on stickers alone for protection.  Robbers will know once they are in your door if there is an alarm system in use, and they can keep moving through your house if they quickly assess your sticker is just an empty threat, so back up your threat with a active wireless security system. 

Third, fake guns don’t offer any protection.  Even real guns left empty simply make a robber mad and more committed to robbing you.  A robber will attempt to over power you and take your weapon.  Most homeowners are not trained in weaponry.  Those that are will shoot first and threaten later.  If you are holding an unloaded or fake gun and making threats, you have already let your intruder know you can’t do anything about their presence.  Consider keeping a stun gun or pepper spray on hand instead.  These items are much easier for inexperienced users to master, and they can’t be faked.  When you pull out a stun gun, you intruder will hear and feel the realness.

Fake security equipment offers the illusion of protection, but it is a waste of money if there is nothing to really protect you in the case of a committed attacker.  Save your money and buy the real deal.  That real alarm system, those real cameras and stun guns, just might save your life.