However, as the Airbnb business has gotten more and more popular with travelers, it has also gotten more popular with scammers. Airbnb scams can take many forms, from last-minute listing switches due to “plumbing problems,” to photos bearing no resemblance to the room when you arrive.

Fortunately, in November of 2019, Airbnb rolled out a security update and guest guarantee to verify guests and hosts and try to limit the possibility that their users could have a bad experience. But with over seven million listings on Airbnb worldwide, even if you think you know the signs you’re about to fall for a bad Airbnb listing, you can’t be too careful.

Before you leave for a vacation, it’s important to know we’ve outlined the most common indications of Airbnb scams below, and the actions you can take when you feel like something just isn’t right.

Pictures Look too Good to Be True

Sometimes it’s obvious that photos have been manipulated (think: Photoshopped, flipped, or digitally furnished, with edges that don’t match up or bizarre perspectives or shadows) and sometimes it’s not. Using fake photos is a classic Airbnb scam.

If the details of the listing—say, a reasonable price and a central location—seem too good to be true when combined with photos that look like they could be on the cover of Architectural Digest, it’s worth taking a minute to reverse-Google-image-search to make sure they’re not stock photos or stolen from somewhere else before renting a property on Airbnb.

To do so, go to images.google.com and click the camera icon on the right-hand side to upload one of the listing’s photos (or simply drag it into the search bar). If the photos can be found on any other website, they will show up, and you may have dodged a bullet—or scored a bargain!

The Reviews Are Bad (or Missing)

If a listing seems nice and has no reviews, don’t despair: new listings are not uncommon, and it takes time to build up a good hosting reputation on a site like Airbnb. So a review-less listing isn’t necessarily an Airbnb scam.

Clicking the price button at the top of the search results will tell you the average nightly price for properties in that location on the dates you’re searching for, so you can see if the price is right. You can also check to see if the host’s identity has been verified by Airbnb (click on their profile to find out). Scammers are unlikely to submit their real government IDs, email addresses, and phone numbers, so if someone’s been verified it’s a good sign. If you still have suspicions, it’s always worth Googling a host if you can.

However, if reviews are present, it’s always worth reading a page or three. Bad reviews or even just reviews that mention personal dealbreakers (such as being in a busy nightlife area) are important information to have.

The Reviews Are too Good

Conversely, there’s the situation where multiple good reviews appear in a row, all with similar wording or less-than-perfect English. While it could simply be international travelers leaving their multi-lingual thoughts, several identical glowing reviews could also be an indication of a classic Airbnb scam listing with fake reviews.

However, if the reviews are nothing but positive and the hosts’ profile has a Superhost badge, it’s a listing you can trust. To maintain Superhost status, hosts have to have had a minimum of 10 stays in the past year, a cancellation rate of less than 1 percent, consistently high ratings (over 4.8 out of 5 stars), and have a 90 percent response rate to new messages within 24 hours. Trust your intuition, and carry out the other action steps (such as checking the photos) to keep yourself safe.

Host Wants You to Communicate or Pay Outside of Airbnb

Airbnb themselves strongly advise that all communication and payments happen through their own website or app, as they can only protect transactions that occur within their system. This means you should never, ever, EVER pay in cash! Scammers might offer you a lower rate if you pay in cash or by bank transfer, or give them credit card details.

Another classic Airbnb scam involves them sending you links to “other listings” they have. Keep it within the Airbnb website. Just make sure you check the website URL!

The Website Looks Like Airbnb, but It Isn’t

Make sure that the website you’ve landed on is the real Airbnb website and not one of the very similar-looking fake websites out there that want to steal your vacation budget! Airbnb scams will truly put in the effort.

The URL should either be https://www.airbnb.com or one of the country-specific ones like https://it.airbnb.com (if you’re lucky enough to be searching in Italy). The easiest way to prevent this is to use the Airbnb app on your phone or tablet, where Airbnb blocks other links.

Airbnb Plus or Airbnb Luxe Listings Have Been Vetted

These listings are definitely more budget-blowing than budget-conscious, but if you can afford a private island vacay in French Polynesia or a penthouse stay in Manhattan, know that you can book in confidence. Both Plus and Luxe are thoroughly vetted by Airbnb according to a 100-point in-person inspection process, and with the average Plus price hovering around $250, it might not even be as much of a bank account breaker as you think.

The Listing Seemed Perfect… Until You Arrived

If you’re unlucky enough to book an Airbnb that turns out to be a complete dud, here’s what to do. Airbnb implemented a Guest Guarantee in December of 2019, which protects guests from last-minute Airbnb scams.

If your stay is less than stellar, Airbnb will rebook you to a new listing of the same or better value, or offer you a full refund if you notify them within 24 hours after check-in. Qualifying circumstances include an unresponsive host (or one who cancels on you during your trip), an unclean or unsafe space, an inaccurate listing description, or missing important amenities.

Over 2020, Airbnb added support team members and undertook a project to review and verify 100 percent of their listings worldwide. The aim was to better support guests and hosts with complaints and to minimize and hopefully eliminate scams.

There’s no doubt that Airbnb is safer now than it was a few years ago, but there are always people looking to take advantage of any gaps in a system to pull an Airbnb scam. The good news is, with a little information in hand you can go ahead and book your much-needed next vacation with confidence.

• To accurately capture and record traffic flow, weather conditions, accidents, hit-and-runs, break-ins and roadside emergencies
• To prove fault (or no fault) in a collision
• To provide a reliable witness during traffic stops
• To reduce blind spots for safer reversals and merging

Despite the name, the best place to mount a dash cam is not actually on the dashboard, but somewhere on the center of your windshield—either behind or below the rearview mirror. For rear dash cams, placement is recommended in the middle of the back windshield.

What is the Wolfbox Dash Cam?

The Wolfbox Mirror Dash Cam is a high-resolution front view and rearview camera that attaches to your existing mirror. It captures and saves video recordings for safekeeping.

Easy to install, set up and operate, the dash cam for cars, trucks, vans and RVs is powered by your vehicle’s battery. There’s a built-in G-sensor that detects shock or a collision, which automatically records and then locks and stores video files, ensuring essential footage is secure until you retrieve it.

How to Use the Wolfbox Dash Cam

The user-friendly Wolfbox camera attaches to an existing mirror with included thick rubber bands and integrated clips. Simply plug in the device with the fully upgraded mini-USB to your car’s Type-C socket. If you don’t want to worry about plugging in the charger and turning it on and off, you can purchase a hardwire kit that connects directly to the ignition wire. Either way, when driving your vehicle, the camera records on a continuous video loop.

Parking the Car

When leaving your car parked, the 24-hour time-lapse mode—directly connected to the battery—provides constant power to protect against theft when leaving the vehicle unattended. The camera will engage when it senses shock or motion or a “hit,” recording the front and rear of the car simultaneously.

Playing Back Video Footage

To view the recorded video, click the playback icon on the Wolfbox Dash Cam home screen and choose the playback interface in the lower left-hand corner. From there, you can either switch between front and rear camera views, or use the split-screen feature.

GPS Tracking

An external GPS antenna tracks precise speed, direction, longitude and latitude data while driving, allowing you to get all the information while playing back the videos on a computer. After inserting the GPS and SD memory card, download the GPS player from the link provided.

The Best Wolfbox Dash Cam Amazon Reviews

“A lot of dash cams sport a number of fancy features. This provides high-quality front and rear video footage, even at night,” writes verified Amazon purchaser, A. Lejbovitz. “What more can one ask for? It can also time/date stamp each video, as well as the GPS coordinates. It snaps onto my rearview mirror and is kind of ‘concealed’ like that. I paid a car wiring guy to run the wires directly to the car battery and tuck them in the paneling so I don’t see anything. It’s great!”

Amazon customer, Samuel Yates, says the dash cam is better than what he’s had in the past, and that it’s well worth the price. “Nice touch screen and good audio recording,” he writes. “For the price, it beats the others! I love the clear night vision screen, better than the other two I had, and not a small display!! If you are thinking about getting a dash cam, this is the one!!!!”

Giving five out of five stars, John Quinn says the Wolfbox Dash Cam is easy to figure out. “I recommend this device to all my friends and family for security reasons, because you never know when you’ll want that video of an incident,” he writes. “I suggest buying the license plate camera bracket, take your time running the wire across the vehicle (under carpet or roof fabric, behind plastic panels, etc.) or have a professional install it, but it’s not very difficult. Also, you can wire the device to use power only when the car is on. This requires installing the separate hardware kit.”

Where to Buy the Wolfbox Dash Cam

A car accessory worth investing in, you can find the Wolfbox Mirror Dash Cam online at Amazon or Walmart, or purchase it directly from the Wolfbox website.

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Best Overall Self-Monitored Home Security System

SimpliSafe Wireless Home Security System

Our pick for the best self-monitored home security system goes to SimpliSafe. This wireless system is an all-around winner, but we especially appreciate that it is pet friendly.  The sensors know when your dog or cat is on the move versus an intruder, so the system will only send notifications when a human is creeping about your home. And as anyone who has had their security alarm tripped at 3 a.m. by a hyperactive cat can tell you, a pet-friendly security system is an investment in safety and a good night’s rest.

In addition, most SimpliSafe system packages are less expensive than many competitor brands. This home security camera system is also easy for any level DIYer to install—plug in the base station, place your sensors where you want them and connect the camera (no tools required).

Pros

• Easy to install
• More affordable than other brands
• Can tell the difference between pets and humans

Cons

• Outdoor camera not included

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Stop spending hours stressing about the state of your home when you’d rather be relaxing—these home security camera deals alleviate your worries and save you money.

Best Security Camera Deals

Blink Mini Indoor Camera

Mount this mini camera from Blink in the front hall or point it out a window to the front porch. Blink cameras are some of the best indoor security cameras on the market, owed mainly to their easy plug-in setup and two-way audio. They integrate with Alexa for easy voice control, and the two-way audio allows you to speak through the device.

Comfort pets, warn intruders and receive motion-activated notifications right to your smartphone, all for under $30 with a 30% markdown.

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Arlo Pro 3 Wire-Free Floodlight Camera

The Arlo Pro 3 camera, currently marked down $80, delivers reasonably sharp detail with a 2K HDR picture and features an attached motion-activated floodlight. It integrates with most smart home devices and includes a trial for Arlo Secure. The free trial enables users to receive instant notifications when someone is at the door.

When something looks out of place, sound the siren, call a friend or dial emergency services. Thanks to its motion-detecting abilities, this camera could also lower your homeowner insurance rate.

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Noorio 1080p Wireless Security Cameras Kit

Pick up a set of two Noorio 1080p cameras for full home protection. The two-pack offers a duo that’s capable of up to 180 days of AI detection on a single charge. Snag them at a markdown of 32%. Noorio cameras are one of the best outdoor security camera deals we found because they do not require a WiFi connection and have no hidden fees.

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Roku Smart Home Video Doorbell

You’ve heard of Roku as a way to stream your favorite shows (like At Home with Family Handyman), but the newest addition to the Roku family of devices is the Roku smart video doorbell—get one for $20 off. Doorbell security cameras have recently soared in popularity thanks to the convenient integration of doorbell features into a home protection device.

Monitor deliveries and watch for intruders after dark with Roku’s night vision and weather-resistant construction. Those who own a Roku TV can even opt-in to receive motion alerts right on their television!

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Solar Powered Home Security Camera Two-Pack

Night vision, two-way audio and solar-powered security cameras that charge in a single hour of sunlight make this home security kit a deal you don’t want to miss. Plus, it’s an incredible 45% off! Both cameras send push notifications when they detect motion and withstand temperatures as low as -4°F.

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Home Security System with LCD Monitor

Everything is in view thanks to this home security system, available at a savings of $150. Included are four monthly fee-free cameras that boast night vision and AI motion detection for fewer false alarms. The big draw of this system is its 12-inch LCD monitor and three-terabyte hard drive—keep an eye on all corners of the home in one convenient place.

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Eufy S40 Protection Pack

Protect your home with a $140 discount on the Eufy S40 kit with code WS24BUS40 and receive a bonus $15 gift card and two free months of Protection Plan Plus. The SoloCam S40 utilizes a built-in solar panel to charge up during the day (it only takes two hours of direct sunlight for a full battery). It’s intelligent enough to distinguish between humans and animals.

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Outdoor Security Camera with Siren

Snag an outdoor security camera with a built-in sound alarm that warns intruders when they get too close. This wireless camera eliminates the need for an outlet, and the SD card slot enables wifi-free storage for a seamless installation. Pick up this budget-friendly camera at a whopping 70% off!

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FAQ

What should I look for when buying a security camera?

Consider your needs when looking for a security camera. Features like cordless and solar-powered cameras offer flexibility—set them up almost anywhere and enjoy a clear picture. Recording features, like the shared neighborhood cloud available with Ring systems, make it easy to keep track of local break-ins close to home.

Do you need WiFi for home security cameras?

Internet Protocol (IP) cameras send footage to your network video recorder (NVR) so they can operate without an internet connection. There are tons of security cameras that work sans wifi, but it’s important to consider the differences between IP cameras and cloud cameras before deciding on a wifi-free security system.

Is there a security camera without a monthly fee?

Some cameras require a monthly fee for certain features, like the Chillax camera. It requires $5.99 per month to review footage over one week old—read more in our Chillax camera review. Many security camera deals offer savings on cameras without monthly fees—check out the options above, or consider other options to deter burglars, like fake security cameras.

If you live in an apartment, can’t afford monthly fees or aren’t ready to invest in a full security camera system, consider apartment door security tools. They bolster your bolt locks for added protection without the added technology.

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But one mysterious feature has eluded the understanding of even the most dedicated users: those small holes located at the bottom. Well, it turns out those aren’t just manufacturing errors—they’re called pin holes and they serve a specific purpose to improve the functionality of the lock.

What Is the Pin Hole in a Padlock For?

Pin holes have two main uses: helping the lock drain any water stuck inside and helping the user lubricate the padlock if it’s stuck. Both are invaluable functions, so let’s dive into how the pin hole performs them.

It Acts as a Drain Hole

The manufacturers of padlocks cleverly realized that many locks would be used in outdoor settings, such as to secure bicycles, cellar doors, or even seaside freight containers. And for a lock to survive the unpredictable elements, it needed to be able to drain any water that would get trapped inside, either through rain or amphibious use.

This is first because the locks would rust if in contact with excess water, particularly salt water. Second, if water were to get trapped inside the small metal vessel and then freeze in lower temperatures, the expansion of the ice could break the internal mechanisms. Both of these situations would render the lock unstable.

Thus, manufacturers developed the drain holes, which allow water to easily flow out of the lock, ensuring it maintains its functionality in all environments.

It Can Help You Open the Padlock If It’s Stuck

Another common pain point with padlocks is that the internal mechanisms can get stuck, due to naturally accumulating dust and particles. To un-stick them, they need to be lubricated properly, but that’s impossible without a plausible entry point. Enter the pin hole.

To properly lubricate a padlock, first use pressurized air on the pin holes and shackle opening to blow the dust out. Then, squirt a drop or two of lock lubricant or engine oil into the pin holes and shackle opening. To evenly distribute the lubricant, tap the lock on a surface several times, then shackle and unshackle it.

To ensure peak performance, lubricate your lock every 3 to 6 months. Furthermore, do not use WD-40, which will dry out the locking mechanism, and use a pencil only in a pinch.

Other Dependable Locking Systems

Though the padlock is undeniably an ingenious tool, all this talk of security may have you thinking about other ways to beef up your home systems. Fortunately, there are a wide array of security solutions in our modern world, from portable locks, braces and security bars to keypads and smart locks. With just a little research, you’re sure to find a lock that fits your needs and budget.

Luckily, there’s a fix that can help. By deciding to blur out your house on Google Maps, you can ensure that you and your family enjoy the privacy you deserve.

Why Should You Blur Your House on Google Maps?

Privacy is one reason it’s a good idea to blur out your house on Google Maps. The main reason it’s wise to do so is that burglars or stalkers can quickly check out your home online and plot a way inside. Because Google Maps offers a thorough look at your house, it’s easy for people to understand your home layout and figure out how they’d breach your privacy and enter your home.

Therefore, many families decide to blur out their house on Google Maps for security reasons. If you have children, keeping your house safe is especially important, as you don’t want any criminals to enter your home when your kids are home. You can also remove your home from Google Maps if you have a lot of valuables or antiques inside.

Regardless of who or what you’re trying to protect, removing the image of your home from Google Maps is a solid idea for privacy purposes and can provide a greater sense of security.

How to Blur Your House on Google Maps

Now that you know why deciding to blur out house on Google Maps is a wise plan, let’s discuss how you can tackle it. Don’t worry; it’s not too difficult.

1. Open Google Maps on your computer—not your smartphone. Unfortunately, this process doesn’t work on smartphone apps and can be cumbersome to complete through a website browser on your phone, so be sure to use a laptop or desktop computer.
2. Search for your home address. A picture of your house will most likely appear. Click on that picture. From there, you should see the street view of your home address.
3. Click on “Report a Problem.” You’ll find that in the bottom right-hand corner of the screen.
4. Select what you want Google to blur out. A red and black box should pop up on your screen, so be sure anything you don’t want to appear fits in that box. Include your home and anything else you don’t want on the internet, such as a detached garage. You can use the buttons on the side to zoom in and out to make this process easier.
5. Select what you’re requesting for Google to blur. Choose whatever applies. Google will also prompt you to provide more detail regarding what it is precisely in the image you want to be blurred. Be as specific as possible, and remember, once something is removed, it’s permanent.
6. Enter your email address and complete the captcha. Then, submit, and you’re all set.

You should see an email in your inbox from Google telling you that it will review your request and keep you updated when it’s accepted or denied. Google also might email you requesting more information so check your inbox periodically to ensure you get any additional communication.

Once you receive an update that your request has been approved, you’ll feel more secure knowing your home is not findable on Google Maps. For extra peace of mind, consider setting up a DIY home alarm system to respond to immediate threats.

Replace (or Get) a Deadbolt

The strongest defense you have against intruders is definitely a deadbolt lock. If your front door doesn’t currently have one—or it’s over seven years old—it’s worth installing a new one. Purchase a new bolt from a reliable hardware store, then unscrew the old one, clean and size the deadbolt hole, and attach the new piece. Be sure to hand-drive the screws so the wood doesn’t splinter.

Install Motion Sensor Lights

It’s no secret the last thing a burglar wants to do is attract attention. So there’s a good chance something unexpected — be it an alarm, a barking dog, or even a sudden flood of light — will be enough to send him away empty-handed. And even when you’re not home, there are ways to catch these crooks off guard.

“While no technology will completely deter all would-be criminals, lighting is an easy way to make a big difference in keeping a home safe and secure,” says Brad Paine, vice president and general manager of Connected Homes at Eaton’s Lighting Division. So install a motion activated light that can detect movement around the perimeter of your house, and make sure it’s activated the whole time you’re away.

Never Open Your Door to Strangers

When someone comes to your door, do you promptly open it, assuming it’s a neighbor or delivery person? if so, stop right now. Those with bad intentions can easily knock you aside and gain entry to your home.

Your best bet to protect your home is adding a video doorbell camera. These easy-to-install devices let you see and talk to whoever’s at your door through an app on your phone. You don’t have to open the door.

A bonus: You can talk to visitors whether you’re home or not. And the camera can catch package thieves, too.

Prevent Fishing

By pushing the door inward to create a gap at the top, a crook can insert a wire hook and fish for the release cord. Some use a wedge to hold the gap open. Once the cord is hooked, all it takes is a good yank to disconnect the door from the opener. On some garage door models, hooking the release lever works too.

Make a Garage Door Lock Shield

A garage door lock shield makes grabbing the release cord almost impossible. This shield is simply a wood cleat and a scrap of plywood screwed to the opener’s arm. The plywood is fastened to the cleat with just two brad nails, so it can break away— rather than do damage—if it runs into something while the door is traveling.

Add a Tie

If your trolley has a pair of holes, you can make a garage door lock with the release and a small plastic zip tie. Use the smallest tie you can find. It will be strong enough to resist the tug of a fishing wire but will break away with a hard pull on the release cord.

Every garage door opener has an emergency release that disconnects the door from the opener. Without it, you wouldn’t be able to open the door when the opener is on the fritz. But some clever crooks have turned this essential feature into a security risk.

Keep in mind that “fishing” a garage door isn’t exactly easy. In some situations, it’s almost impossible. Some garage door openers have a release mechanism that must be pulled straight down and won’t release if the cord is tugged at an angle toward the door. Others are a bit easier to fish, especially if your garage door has a window that allows the crook to see what they’re doing.

Add a Garage Door Monitor

The monitor receives the signal from the sensor and displays whether the garage door is open or closed. Sensors and monitors are battery-operated—no wiring is required.

Automatic Door Closer

Garage security is often undermined simply because someone forgot to close the door.  An automatic door closer gives you more security by closing the door whether you’re home or not. Installation requires some simple low-voltage wiring and takes less than an hour.

Keep Your Opener With Your Keys

It’s simple: If you take your garage door opener with you, thieves can’t steal it from your car. A keychain remote just makes sense.

A thief who breaks into your car can grab the remote for easy access to your garage. This isn’t just a problem when your car is parked in the driveway; the registration card in your glove box gives a crook your address.

So get rid of the remote on your visor and buy a keychain remote. You can easily take it with you every time you leave the car.

Lock the Track

If your door doesn’t have a lockable latch, drill a hole in the track just above one of the rollers and slip in a padlock. This is a good idea if you’re going on an extended trip and won’t need to get in and out of your garage for a while.

5 More Ways To Lock Down Your Garage

1. Beef up the service door. The walk-through entry door (called the “service door”) is the number one security weak spot in most garages. It should be equipped with a deadbolt and a heavy-duty strike plate, just like any other exterior door in your house.
2. Lock the entry door. If you have an attached garage, lock the entry door that leads into the house. Too many homeowners rely on the service door and leave the entry door unlocked.
3. Cover windows. If crooks can’t see the tools and toys in your garage, they won’t be motivated to get in. Sheer curtains or translucent window film lets in light but keeps valuables out of sight.
4. Add lighting. Bright lighting makes burglars nervous and just might make them go elsewhere. Motion detector lighting is better than on-all-night lighting because it saves energy when it’s off and attracts attention when it’s on.
5. Install a full home security system.

What Is a Smart Home Security System?

Many companies advertise their security systems are “smart.” What this means varies from brand to brand, but it usually means the system can be paired with smart devices. Most qualify as smart security systems because they can be controlled remotely by an app on your phone.

Many systems go a step further. Some can be armed via voice commands through Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant or Apple’s Siri. Others can be added to smart device routines. With Alexa, you could set up a routine where the security system automatically arms when the smart lights on your porch turn on at dusk.

The History of Smart Home Security Systems

Home security systems are nothing new. But as time progressed, security systems have gotten smarter.

In 1874, the first home security company American District Telegraph (ADT) was founded. Its “Roundsmen” visited customers’ homes at night to prevent thefts. Not long after its founding, ADT created telegram call boxes so customers could contact the company for assistance. In the 1920s it invented the first monitoring center, allowing customers to telephone for help night or day.

In the 1960s, a nurse named Marie Van Brittan Brown invented the first camera-based security system in Jamaica, Queens. Though never put into production, it inspired modern security systems and has been cited in 35 U.S. patents. This system was also the first to propose a way to open doors remotely.

In 2012 Jamie Siminoff created a “doorbot,” basically a video security camera mixed with a doorbell. With it, you could check your smartphone to see who was at your door. This evolved into the Ring Video Doorbell, leading to other home security devices with smart functions.

Common Terms

Let’s look at some basic terms you’ll come across when you’re buying a smart home security system.

Arming, Monitored and Unmonitored

When most people think of a home security system, they picture a keypad that calls the police when a code isn’t entered. While a keypad is the heart of a security system, these smart systems are a little more complicated than that.

A security system consists of sensors that detect motion, movement or sound. These sensors send information to the hub of the system (the keypad or touchscreen display). What the hub does next depends on whether the system is armed and/or monitored.

Arming a system means if the sensors detect a human in the house, the hub will react. If it’s a monitored system, the keypad or hub will call a monitoring center if the correct code isn’t entered within a certain amount of time. The monitoring center will then call the owner. If the owner can’t be reached, the next call goes to local authorities.

Unmonitored systems send a text message and/or push notification to the owner to let them know of a possible intrusion. From there, the owner can investigate or call the authorities themselves.

People often opt for unmonitored systems because they worry about false alarms. Unmonitored systems are also less expensive since there isn’t a monthly monitoring fee. Monitored systems, though, offer the reassurance that if you can’t call for help, someone will on your behalf.

DIY Vs. Professional Installation

While shopping for a home security system, you’ll see DIY often mentioned. DIY systems are ones that you install yourself. These are often less expensive than professionally installed systems. You can expect to pay $75 to $100 for professional installation.

While many don’t advertise it, most DIY home security companies offer professional installation. Be sure to ask their customer service department if it’s available.

Typically, DIY systems are really easy to install. All you need is a drill, your phone and a couple of hours to set everything up. Here’s our DIY installation guide to help.

Pro installation is often helpful if you don’t feel confident pairing your smart devices with your security system. The installer can help you pair them and even set up some routines.

Components of a Smart Home Security System

Now let’s look at all the components you can choose for your smart security system.

Sensors

Sensors are the most important part of a home security system. With these, you can tell what’s going on in every area of your home, and even set up routines to better manage your life. Here are some common types of sensors:

• Glass break sensors detect someone breaking a window.
• Tilt sensors, added to garage doors, notify you when the door is opened.
• Motion sensors are often placed around doors and in hallways.
• Flood sensors detect water on floors. They’re handy for alerting you to a leaky faucet or overflowing washer.
• Fire and smoke sensors/detectors let you know if there’s a fire in your home. Notifications pushed to your phone are particularly helpful for those with trouble hearing alarms.
• Window/door sensors detect if one of these has been opened.

Cameras

Security cameras on smart systems do more than just video your home and yard. Advanced smart features add an extra level to your security.

• Two-way talk features let you to talk to the person via the security system app. There’s no need to get close to potential threats with this feature.

• Built-in sirens or security lights can activate when motion is detected, or manually by the app.

• Push notifications send alerts to your phone when the camera “sees” movement.

Smart accessories

Most security system brands offer smart home devices beyond sensors and cameras. Some accessories you can choose from include:

• Smart door locks;
• Doorbell cameras;
• Smart thermostats;
• Smart garage door openers;
• Smart medical alert items.

Do I Need a Smart Home Security System?

Generally, yes. And it’s not just about keeping your home safe from thieves. Here are some reasons why even a person living in the safest place in the world may want a smart security system:

• Many insurers offer discounts on home policies if you have a security system. Contact your agent to see if your provider offers discounts.

• Smart cameras are super useful. You can put one in your kid’s play area and watch them through the app while you cook dinner. You can also keep an eye on your pet while you’re at work, and even talk to them.

• They make living at home longer a possibility for seniors. Medical alert accessories make calling for help easy, and smart cameras can be used to unobtrusively check on grandparents. (Be sure to get their permission first.)

At first, you worry someone is messing with your car, so you jump up to check on it. After a few nights of false alarms, though, you learn to keep your key fob on your nightstand and don’t even check. Those false alarms defeat the purpose of having a car security system in the first place.

Let’s find out why this is happening and what you can do about it.

Why Does My Car Alarm Randomly Go Off at Night?

Your car alarm is supposed to scare away anyone who tries to tamper with your vehicle. If your car alarm keeps going off at night and there’s no evidence of anyone tampering with your car, what’s going on?

Typically, when a car alarm goes off randomly only at night, it’s one of these probable causes:

The enemy

Have you made anyone mad? Someone may be setting off the alarm just to bug you and interrupt your sleep. Shaking the car, bumping it with a hip or lifting the door handle may be enough to set off the alarm without leaving any evidence behind.

The low battery

A low battery can set off your alarm. If you use your car all day the battery may get low at night, making the alarm sound.

The night critters

Nocturnal animals like cats and raccoons may be using your car as a late-night perch or napping spot. When the alarm goes off, the critter skedaddles, leaving no trace.

The trash truck

Some car alarm sensors are sensitive enough to trip when a large vehicle rumbles by. If your park your car on the street and the alarm sounds around the time the trash truck makes its rounds, you can bet the truck is setting off your alarm.

How To Fix a Car Alarm That Keeps Going Off at Night

Determining the cause of the nighttime alarms will take a little detective work. Set up an inexpensive security camera to watch your car and check the footage the next day. Then, take action.

The enemy fix

If the cause is vengeful person up to no good, show the footage to your local authorities. They can guide you in your next steps.

The nocturnal critter and big truck fix

If the trash truck or late-night critters are setting it off, start parking your car in a garage at night. If you don’t have one, check into renting a garage space nearby, or we can help you DIY a garage. If park outside can’t be avoided, try these tips for getting rid of pesky raccoons and stray cats.

Another possibility: Adjust the sensitivity of your alarm sensors. The process can vary by brand, so consult your car alarm owner’s manual for instructions.

The low battery fix

If there’s nothing on the footage, your car probably has a low battery. AutoZone and most other auto parts stores will test your battery for free. You can also test the battery yourself. If the battery isn’t holding a charge like it should, buy a new one and replace the one that’s causing the nighttime false alarms.

As a safety and security expert, I have lots of experience installing home security cameras for work and at home. Figuring out how many cameras you need and where to place them is an important security decision. Here are some guidelines to get you just the right amount of home security for your needs.

How Many Security Cameras Do I Need?

Before purchasing security cameras, think about the layout of your property and which areas you want to be covered. There’s no sense in buying more cameras than you need. Keep in mind some camera systems use local hubs for recording footage and each hub is only compatible with a certain number of cameras. So if you buy a lot of cameras, you may need an additional hub.

Most people need two to four outdoor security cameras and one or two indoors. But the right number for you depends on your goals. If you just want to monitor your porch for that neighbor who always steals your newspaper, all you really need is a doorbell camera. On the other hand, full coverage of your property will involve a more involved setup.

Cameras at your front and back doors offer a good view of who’s coming and going. Then you can add cameras on each side to cover the rest of your yard. Next, add an indoor camera to each living space you want to monitor.

Nix cameras for any rooms where the occupants expect privacy, like bedrooms and bathrooms. Most states have laws against filming in these areas. Check your local ordinances to see what’s OK and what’s not.

How Many Outdoor Cameras Do I Need?

If you have a big yard, outbuildings or barns, four outdoor cameras may not be enough. You don’t necessarily need to cover every square foot of your yard, just the areas you want secured. A patch of grass on the far corner of your property doesn’t need a camera, but the door of your storage building almost certainly does.

Think about the “security hotspots” in your yard. Consider:

• Front door/porch;
• Side door;
• Back door;
• Shed;
• Kid or pet’s play area;
• Pool;
• Garage/carport;
• Barn;
• Outdoor entertaining area.

Each hotspot will probably need its own camera unless they’re adjacent. I use one camera to cover my garage and shed doors because they’re only a few feet apart.

How Much Do Security Cameras Cost?

Security camera cost varies by brand and features. Additional factors are pro vs. DIY installation and storage.

DIY cameras

Prices on DIY security cameras typically range from $30 to $300 each, depending on features. These are usually wireless and connect to your home’s Wi-Fi. They store footage in the cloud, or locally on a memory card or DVR-style recording system.

The Arlo Pro 4 camera costs around $200, with a four-pack available for about $500. Considered more of a top-of-the-line DIY security camera, it features 2K video; people, vehicle and package detection; and a wire-free hub-less setup.

The Wyze Cam Outdoor runs $80, or $278 for four cameras. The lower price means you give up a few things. The Wyze camera offers 1080p HD video instead of the Arlo Pro 4’s 2K. It also lacks people, vehicle and package detection. And you need a base station for the Wyze cameras, costing an additional $20.

You can save money on indoor cameras by purchasing a 360-degree camera for each room. These cameras sense motion and then swivel to film whatever’s moving. The Wyze Cam Pan v2 is a top-of-the-line 360-degree camera that costs around $40.

With DIY security cameras, remember to factor in the cost of video storage. These cameras offer cloud storage subscriptions if there isn’t a local option, or some will let you choose between local and cloud storage. Subscriptions usually cost $5 to $10 per month.

DIY cameras don’t require elaborate installation tools. Most can be installed in a few minutes with a screwdriver.

Professionally installed

Professional installation costs vary. Expect to pay around $100 to $400 per camera. The average home usually costs a little more than $1,000 for a professional installation.

These systems typically come with a local storage option built into the overall price. Some home security companies, like Vivint and Frontpoint, offer cloud subscription plans for their pro-installed cameras.

Unlike DIY cameras, some professionally installed cameras offer monitoring through security companies. This service usually costs around $10 to $15 extra per month. When the monitoring company detects an intruder, it will contact you and, if needed, the authorities.

Best Places To Put Security Cameras

Here are some things to consider:

• Place outdoor security cameras up high so troublemakers can’t easily tear them down. About nine feet is high enough to discourage tampering.

• Make sure trees, bushes, flags and other yard items won’t block camera views.

• Indoors, put 360-degree cameras as close to the center of the room to provide good coverage of the area.

• For the best view of an entire room, place standard cameras in a corner, midway up the wall. Mounting them to the ceiling can leave a large blind spot underneath the camera.

Can Alexa Be Hacked?

If a hacker can gain access to your home’s Wi-Fi network, they can access to anything connected to it. However, we haven’t found any reports of an Alexa device being hacked by someone with nefarious intentions.

Over the years, researchers have hacked Alexa to find vulnerabilities bad actors could exploit. In 2020 the cybersecurity company firm Check Point discovered one that would allow hackers to install Alexa with malware capable of stealing your personal information. Soon after, Amazon fixed the problem.

Earlier this year, researchers from London’s Royal Holloway University and the University of Catania in Italy found a weakness they dubbed “Alexa versus Alexa.” In this case, researchers gained access by getting Alexa devices to say malicious commands to themselves. Thankfully, hackers can’t do this without installing malware first. So if you take precautions, there’s not much worry about this one.

While not exactly hacking, there are instances of someone stealing an Alexa device to find out information about the owner, or Alexa telling people to do weird stuff.

How To Tell if Alexa Is Hacked

Here are some signs your Alexa may have been tampered with:

• The listening light comes on without you saying the trigger word.

• You live alone but noticed strange items in your Amazon shopping cart. Someone may be exploiting the Alexa add-to-cart feature.

• You look at your Alexa-enabled skills and notice some you didn’t add.

What To Do If Alexa Is Hacked

If you suspect your Alexa has been hacked, unplug it immediately. Then take these steps:

1. File a report with your local law enforcement so they can investigate.

2. Check your bank account, credit cards and Amazon account for any purchases you didn’t make.

3. Change the passwords to any accounts linked to your Alexa.

4. Factory reset your router by pressing and holding the reset button for 10 seconds. Then change the password.

Here are more tips on how to fight back after your smart devices are hacked.

How To Secure Alexa

You can keep your Alexa safe from hacking with these easy prevention tips:

• Be careful about the skills you enable. Some could be malicious. Look for skills from reputable companies, or with hundreds of good reviews.

• Use strong passwords with capital letters, symbols and numbers. Here are some tips.

• Reboot your router every 14 days to refresh the IP address. This will throw off potential hackers.

• Change the device’s trigger word from “Alexa” to another name. To do this, say, “Alexa, change the wake word.”

• Use a strong password on your Amazon account.

• Turn on two-factor verification for your Amazon account by going to login and security. Choose the Two-Step Verification (2SV) option, click Edit and then Get Started. Then follow the on-screen prompts.

This show isn’t the only one to profit from security camera footage. People on TikTok and other media platforms have been sharing funny, scary, and puzzling security cam footage with a worldwide audience for some time.

This has many people thinking: can my neighbor point their security camera at my backyard and capture embarrassing footage? We consulted with Justin Lovely, an attorney with experience in privacy law, to find out.

Can a Neighbor Point a Security Camera at My Backyard?

Yes, according to Lovely.

“Generally speaking, a person has no expectation of privacy in public,” he says. “In a neighborhood setting, a homeowner can add a security camera to his house and place a security camera pointing in whatever direction he pleases.”

When Can a Neighbor Point a Security Camera at Your House?

The short answer is, whenever they want, as long as they don’t have bad intentions. If it’s purely for home security purposes, they’re allowed to point their security camera at your backyard.

When Is It Not OK for a Neighbor To Point a Security Camera at Your House?

It’s important to investigate your state’s security camera laws to know your rights. Different states have different laws on the placement of cameras, based on their owner’s intent.

“All states will have some sort of statute to answer this question,” Lovely says. “It really depends on the particular facts of the camera placement and the proof or lack thereof that there is bad intent in gathering the footage.”

In Texas, it’s illegal to film certain parts of other people’s anatomy without consent. So if you pointed your camera at your neighbor’s pool to catch someone skinny dipping, that would be illegal. In South Carolina, the law says cameras aren’t allowed to point in a “place where a person would have a reasonable expectation of privacy.” This could mean a dressing room or other personal spaces.

What To Do If a Neighbor Points a Security Camera at Your House

If you’ve noticed your neighbor’s security camera pointed your way, Lovely recommends communication.

“The first step will be to have a reasonable conversation about the placement of the security camera if you feel it is intrusive,” said Lovely. “Most neighbors are friendly, believe it or not, and this will solve 99 percent of issues between property owners.

“If that does not work, and you feel your privacy is being invaded or there is bad intent of the placement, file a complaint with law enforcement.”

Do an Internet search for “surveillance cameras” and you’ll find a dizzying array of products and options with many different price points. Before moving further, you have to figure out how many security cameras you need. We surveyed the current crop of cameras for you and found that most have a lot of the same features and can be had for only $50 to $200. So before you start shopping, think about the features that would fill your camera needs and security camera installation.

• Tilt and Zoom: Some cameras let you remotely control the direction they’re pointing at, which might be important depending on how large an area you want to keep an eye on. Most with this feature will rotate up to 350 degrees, which is like having eyes in the back of your head!
• Wide-Angle Lenses: If you would like to monitor a large area but don’t want your camera to call attention to itself by moving around, look for a camera with a wide-angle lens. These cameras tend to be smaller than their pan-and-tilt counterparts, making them easier to hide.
• High-Definition Video & Photos: With most cameras, you can capture and store high-quality video and photos on an SD card, a cloud service (remote server), a DVR (digital video recorder), or your smartphone or tablet.
• Motion Detection: Many cameras are activated by motion and will start a recording, send an email or app alert to your mobile device, or both.
• Night Vision: Thanks to infrared technology, the ability to see intruders after dark is possible with all the cameras we looked at.
• Free Mobile Apps: Downloadable apps let you watch live video, capture video and photos, and control pan-and- tilt functions on your camera remotely over the Internet.
• Two-Way Audio: This feature makes it possible to communicate with the person you’re watching, allowing some surveillance cameras to double as baby monitors.
• Indoor and/or Outdoor Approved: Some cameras are water-resistant and rated for outdoor use. This can mean the difference between noticing somebody lurking outside and seeing somebody after they’ve already broken into your house.

Types of Security Cameras

Wireless security cameras

If you don’t want to snake wires through walls or be limited by the location of electrical outlets, consider a fully wireless security camera like the Arlo by NETGEAR. Wireless types are the ultimate easy to install security cameras. This little camera is small but big on features! It has a built-in magnet so you can stick it on the side of a metal object or attach it to a metal ball mount (included). Video recordings are motion activated and get stored on a cloud server, and the camera sends app alerts or emails to you with links to the video. You can also stream live video on your smartphone, tablet or computer.

The camera is powered by four nonrechargeable lithium batteries that last four to six months. It comes with a base station that you plug directly into your Internet modem, or you can buy additional cameras for $160 each and pair them with your existing base station. Sets of one or more cameras complete with base station are available for $180 to $650. Wireless outdoor cameras from other makers range from $80 to $200.

Hardwired security cameras

These full-featured “security systems” are about as good as they get, but setting them up takes a bit of work. They’re hardwired, so you’ll likely have to snake some power and video cables through walls and ceilings to mount the cameras exactly where you want them.

Many of these kits-like the Funlux Home Security Camera System shown here-include multiple high-resolution, fullcolor water-resistant cameras that can be mounted indoors or out, and will record several days’ worth of video on a dedicated DVR. You can also watch live video from any or all of the cameras on a high-definition TV or remotely via your smartphone or tablet.

Partially wireless security cameras

We’re calling these cameras “partially” wireless. The LeFun C2 and the Conbrov Wf90 shown here connect wirelessly to the Internet via your home’s Wi-Fi router, but require cords for power. Most cameras like these are rated for indoor use only.

The LeFun and others of its type give you the ability to control pan (left to right) and tilt (up and down) via your mobile device. The Conbrov and similar models sport stationary wide-angle lenses. Both of these cameras feature builtin speakers and microphones for two-way audio, night vision, motion detection alerts, and options for recording and storing video. You can also watch recorded or live video from your smartphone or tablet. Similar cameras from other manufacturers cost $35 to $100.

Game security cameras

Also called “trail” or “scouting” cameras, game cameras are designed primarily for hunters and wildlife photographers. However, if the spot where you want to place a surveillance camera is in a wooded area without an electrical outlet or Wi-Fi signal, a camera like the Stealth Cam P22 shown here might be just the thing. It’s definitely part of the easy to install security cameras group. While it won’t send you alerts or allow you to stream live video over the Internet, this camera-which you just strap to a tree-will capture high-quality photos and video whenever a person or animal walks by, even at night. This type of camera is powered by regular batteries or an external battery box and stores images on a removable SD card that holds up to 32GB of media. When you want to see what the camera recorded, you just connect it to your computer with a USB cable (or plug the SD card directly into your computer or card reader).

Do Fake Cameras Work?

Sometimes a realistic-looking fake camera might be enough to thwart would-be intruders. See the security camera in the first photo of this article? It’s a fake! Made by several manufacturers, they can be had for $10 to $30 for one or more units. It can be mounted anywhere and has 30 illuminating LEDs that turn on after dark, making it look even more real. You won’t be able to watch anyone lurking around your house, but a ‘camera’ like this might just prevent a break-in.

Sabre Wedge Door Stop Security Alarm

The Sabre Wedge Door Stop Security Alarm alerts you to intruders with a 120-decibel (aka, loud) sound, and features a durable, non-stick pad that prevents the door from opening while the alarm is going off. It doesn’t require any wiring due to its battery-operated design (ideal for renters), but you’ll never have to worry about accidentally running out of battery power—the device offers a low-battery mode, so you can be sure to switch the batteries out in time.

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Gas-station fraud commonly occurs with the use of skimmers, small devices that thieves place on or above the card readers at gas pumps (and ATMs) to copy and steal your credit card information. They used to be found primarily in cities. But now the scam has spread into rural areas, and everyone should be on alert for these devices.

One of the best ways to avoid becoming a victim of a gas pump card skimmer is paying inside. But time is valuable, and while most people are willing to download the best gas apps and gas credit cards to save money, they’re less thrilled about walking inside each time they fill up.

Instead, learn how to recognize these devices before you pay.

What are credit card skimmers?

“A credit card skimmer is a device that transfers data from your credit card’s stripe,” says Chris Hauk, consumer privacy champion at online privacy and security site Pixel Privacy.

“Skimmers are usually found on gas pumps or other point-of-sale devices, in areas that aren’t being monitored every minute of the day. This allows the bad guys time to install a skimmer on a pump without being observed.”

How does a gas skimmer work?

As the name indicates, this device skims data off your credit card when you use it to pay. “A credit card skimmer is a magnetic stripe reader placed on an existing, legitimate card reader,” says Paul Bischoff, a privacy advocate with cybersecurity website Comparitech. “Whenever a customer pays with their card, their card is read by both the skimmer and the original reader.”

Because customers see their sales go through, they don’t have any reason to suspect anything has gone awry. “Skimmers are designed to be discreet so that the victim doesn’t notice them,” he says. “The skimmer stores scanned credit card info until the person who put it there retrieves it.”

From there, the thief can perpetuate online scams, using your credit card information to buy things online.

Do card skimmers work on chip cards?

Credit card skimmers do work on chip-enabled cards. However, they read the magnetic strip on your card, not the chip, so avoid the strip reader when possible. Think of this as one aspect of a multi-pronged approach to avoiding gas-station scams.

“Use a chip reader on the pump, if it is available,” Hauk says, “and always use a pump that is in a visible part of the gas station, such as the pump right in front of the cashier’s window. High-visibility pumps are tougher to attach skimmers to.”

What does a credit card skimmer look like?

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To an untrained eye, gas pump card skimmers look like part of the point-of-sale hardware. They are usually bulky and plastic, stick out further than the machine, and have arrows that don’t line up. The device may also wiggle because it’s not a permanently affixed piece of the machine.

“Because they’re attached to existing card readers, they tend to bulge out a bit,” Bischoff says. “If I’m suspicious, I’ll often give the card reader a tug and prod to make sure.”

But external skimmers aren’t the only way your credit card can be skimmed, and even people trained in surveillance techniques can fall prey to gas-station scams.

One Secret Service agent involved in an investigation about gas pump skimmers was the victim of gas-pump fraud himself — twice. So even a government official who’s trained on this topic often can’t tell if skimmers are there.

Robert Siciliano, CEO of cybersecurity training company ProtectNow, adds it’s increasingly common for gas pumps to be skimmed internally. “This means there’s a device attached in the communication lines that intercepts the card number as it travels over the Internet,” he says.

How do I know if my gas pump has a skimmer?

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Usually when you hit the gas station, you’re thinking about getting better gas mileage and making sure you don’t accidentally put diesel in your gas-fueled car. But before you pump, you really ought to take a moment to inspect the gas pump.

There are a few telltale signs that a pump may have a gas pump skimmer attached. Before you pay, inspect the point-of-sale terminal by following the guidance below:

• Look at the machines around you and compare the card-reading slots and keypads. If they don’t look the same, some might have credit card skimmers.
• Inspect the lockable door on the pump (where the attendant loads paper for receipts) to make sure it’s firmly closed. There shouldn’t be any uneven gaps in the casing — that indicates tampering. Some gas stations place tamper-resistant seals over the door, though not all stations take this extra step. Still, it’s something to look for.
• Ensure that nothing on the point-of-sale machine wiggles. Take a few seconds to verify everything is firmly attached.
• Be aware of hidden cameras thieves may have installed to capture your PIN when you enter it.

How can I protect myself at the gas pump?

Educating yourself on how to spot a credit card skimmer and what card skimmers do is a good first step in protecting yourself from gas-pump fraud.

Always exercise awareness anytime you’re using a public pay station, or when your card leaves your sight. A shop employee who takes your card into another room to run the transaction could be dipping the card into a skimmer.

Stay safe when filling your tank by following the expert tips below.

• Whenever possible, choose the pump closest to the building. They’re closest to employees and the least likely to have been tampered with.
• Avoid using a debit card, if possible. Should you be forced to use debit, run it as a credit card so you don’t have to enter your PIN. Debit purchases take the money right out of your account, while credit purchases have a lag time for payment and often offer zero fraud liability.
• Because scammers may use skimmed cards to pay for online orders without the merchant seeing the physical card, identity theft protection company LifeLock suggests setting up alerts to let you know if your debit or credit cards were used for a “card not present” transaction of $100 or more. Siciliano also recommends regularly checking your statements, especially if you’re often in crowded areas like subways and airports.
• Avoid the PIN pad. “If at all possible, always use the chip or the Apple Pay–type payment system,” Bischoff advises. A chip-enabled card is safer than swiping your credit card. And Apple Pay creates a unique code for each transaction, which offers some built-in protection.
• If you visit the same gas stations frequently, buy gas-station gift cards. They don’t carry any of your personal information. And since they have a limited value, should a scammer somehow get the numbers, your personal losses would be relatively minimal.
• Use gas apps, a safer way to pay at the pump.

What should I do if I think my card has been skimmed?

If you think your card has been skimmed, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to protect others from being scammed and to help the FTC break up skimming rings.

Installing the mobile apps for your various accounts is a convenient way to stay on top of your transactions. Regardless of how you do it, regularly checking your statements is critical. And timing can make the difference between you incurring out-of-pocket costs or not.

Not all credit card companies offer fraud protection, so you should also report the crime to your financial institution as soon as possible. How much you’re responsible for depends on how quickly you report the compromised card.

Additional reporting by Bobbi Jo Dempsey

In this new type of scam, sellers on Amazon or other shopping platforms inflate their ratings by shipping products to an unsuspecting victim and posting a fake review in the victim’s name.

“It can be disconcerting to receive an unsolicited package, especially since they are often sent from overseas,” says Alex Hamerstone, a director with security consulting firm TrustedSec.

Most of the time, you are not in any immediate danger. But it does mean bad actors may have accessed your personal information, including your name, address and even phone number.

So, should you be worried if an unexpected package shows up at your doorstep? We asked experts to weigh in on what a brushing scam is, how dangerous it could be, and what you should do if you receive a package you didn’t order.

What is a Brushing Scam?

In a brushing scam, an online retailer sends people items and products they didn’t purchase to fraudulently improve their store’s ratings.

Creating a fake transaction and mailing the item to a random person gives the seller credit for a sale, which boosts that seller’s rating on online marketplaces like Amazon. They may also write a fake positive review of the item in the recipient’s name to increase their rating even more.

“The intention is to give the impression that the recipient is a verified buyer who has written positive online reviews of the merchandise,” says Eva Velasquez, president and CEO of the Identity Theft Resource Center (ITRC).

The term brushing comes from a translation of the Chinese word for cleaning, according to Hamerstone.

“[It’s] similar to how in English we talk about money laundering even though it has nothing to do with detergent and washing machines, because it makes the illicit money ‘clean,’ ” Hamerstone says. “The term brushing is used because the transaction is ‘cleaned.’ ”

Is Brushing Illegal?

Brushing scams are illegal in the U.S. and many other countries, according to the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS). But since most brushing scams are committed by overseas sellers, it’s often too difficult for U.S. authorities to track down these criminals.

“The much bigger risk to the perpetrators is being banned from selling platforms like Amazon and eBay, which would affect their ability to earn a living,” Hamerstone says.

Amazon and other online marketplaces prohibit brushing scams, he says, so reporting the incident to the platform is the best way to hold that seller accountable.

Is Brushing Dangerous?

If you receive an item you didn’t order, it could mean that your personal information was compromised. Scammers might have purchased your information from a database of compromised accounts on the Dark Web, which could leave you vulnerable to other crimes like identity theft in the future, according to Velasquez.

On the other hand, fraudsters can often find this information on public data broker sites for free. “Whether we like it or not, our names and addresses are widely available in public and private databases all over,” Hamerstone says. “A scammer usually just needs the kinds of information available in a phone book to run a brushing scam.”

What to Do if You Receive a Mystery Package

First, check the package to see if it was delivered to you by mistake. “If a package is addressed to your neighbor and delivered to you by accident, it isn’t yours to keep,” Hamerstone says. You can choose to keep or discard an unsolicited package addressed to you, or you can try to return it to the sender if a return address is listed.
In addition, Hamerstone recommends monitoring your credit card and bank accounts to make sure you weren’t charged for the item, and notifying authorities if the package contains anything suspicious. Victims can report brushing scams to the BBB Scam Tracker or contact the Identity Theft Resource Center to speak with expert advisors, Velasquez says.
“The most effective thing you can do is report it to the platform [such as Amazon or eBay], as the platform is most likely to be able to take action,” Hamerstone says. When you file a fraud report with the platform, you can also request they remove the fake review written in your name if there is one.

How to Protect Yourself From Brushing Scams

Whether you’re already the victim of a brushing scam or want to prevent it from happening to you, there are steps you can take to protect your personal information.

Velasquez suggests changing your account passwords with unique 12-plus-character passphrases and frequently checking your financial accounts for any suspicious activity. “This is why good cyber-hygiene and online account management are so important,” Velasquez says. “The better you protect your personal information, the less damage an identity criminal can do.”

Install a Smart Lock

A smart lock is a keyless mode of entry that connects via Bluetooth to your cellphone or other mobile devices. Physical keys can be easily lost or stolen, but smart locks can:

• Open doors to friends and family even when you’re not there;
• Track and record who’s entered your home and when;
• Give house guests and workers temporary access;
• Change a passcode at a moment’s notice.

Fitting with your existing deadbolt, the August WiFi (4th Generation) Smart Lock is easy to install and works with many types of voice assistants (Alexa, Google, Siri and more).

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Not exactly. Taking out the trash is just the start of getting your cabin ready for a long, lonely winter.

There’s a lot to do, including removing anything and everything that can cause trouble if left unattended. This includes obvious hazards, like chemicals, and seemingly harmless things like carbonated beverages, says Melanie Musson, a home maintenance expert with Clearsurance. She told a story about a family that left two 12-packs of soda in their cabin over the winter.

“The soda froze (and) built up pressure inside the cans until the cans exploded and spewed pressurized soda all the way up to the ceiling,” she says. “Then, the sticky soda that was covering everything dehydrated until it was like hard candy stuck to everything.”

Fortunately, the incident didn’t cause permanent damage, but it was still a hassle to clean up. It would have been easy to avoid by simply bringing the soda home.

Want to sidestep a mess like this, or one way worse? Here are six categories of items to put on your cabin packing list when closing down for the winter.

What Valuables To Remove From Cabin?

Even if your cabin is remote, there is still a chance someone will break in when no one’s there. You can’t necessarily stop this from happening, but you can stop said thief from stealing anything you’ll truly miss by making sure it isn’t there in the first place.

A lot of it, says Spike Carlsen, a former Family Handyman editor and author of Cabin Lessons: A Nail-by-Nail Tale, is common sense. Don’t leave jewelry or large amounts of cash in your cabin all winter, or ever, really. (If you’re on site, keep those things in a safe!). For safety and security reasons, it’s probably best to take guns and ammunition.

You should remove sentimental, irreplaceable things like photographs or keepsakes as well, along with anything else that could look even remotely appealing to a thief peeping through the window. We’re talking game consoles or your high-end fishing gear, unless you can lock it all up out of sight. It might feel like a pain to take everything home, but it’s a lot easier than trying to replace it all.

Anything in an Aerosol Can

If you have aerosol containers of any kind, like hairspray, spray paint or even cooking spray, take it home, Musson says. These become unstable in extreme temperatures (hot or cold), and if they freeze they can explode, much like the soda.

Because the biggest risk is a mess, you don’t need to turn around after three hours on the road if you realize you left a can of avocado oil on the kitchen counter. But it’s definitely safer to remove it.

All Food and Beverages

Never, of course, leave perishable food in the refrigerator. But it’s also necessary to take all bottled and canned drinks, canned food, boxed items and bulk goods from your cabin kitchen, Carlsen says.

Why? The liquid in canned goods expands when it freezes. “A can of beans will explode when it reaches a certain temperature,” Carlson says. When it does, you’ll have beans all over the cabinets and countertops. And it won’t take long for pests to discover the mishap. When you return next season, you’ll find they’ve been feasting at your expense all winter.

Your beverages can freeze and expand, too. Leave them behind and you could easily lose your entire wine stash.

Non-perishables like cereal or baking supplies also need to go. Mice are notorious for breaking into boxes of dry goods, and insects will lay eggs in bags of flour. You don’t want to arrive at your cabin in the spring, ready to pour a bowl of Rice Krispies, only to discover a horde of mice got to it first.

Cosmetics

For convenience sake, it might make sense to keep sunscreen, lotion, make-up and other personal care products at the cabin. You’ll regret it, though, when you discover freezing temperatures made everything separate or congeal, rendering them useless even when they thaw, Musson says.

Cleaning Products and Other Household Chemicals

You should also box up disinfectants and detergents. Just like your sunscreen, these items can separate when they freeze, so they’ll be no good when you try to use them again.

And don’t forget your household chemicals like bleach, antifreeze, paint and ammonia. Some can expand and explode if they freeze. If they do, it’s a safety risk — imagine walking into your cabin and breathing in all those toxic fumes. Plus, like so many other items, exposure to cold can damage the chemicals so they can’t do the job.

Electronics

If you accidentally leave your tablet behind, you won’t get to use it all winter — and that’s certainly disappointing. But there’s a bigger problem — extreme temperatures can damage electronics.

“Both battery-operated and plug-in electronics shouldn’t be exposed to below-freezing temperatures,” says Musson. “LCD screens could crack, and battery life is shortened or damaged by cold temps.”

In general, it’s a good idea to take anything with a lithium-ion rechargeable battery. Think phones, tablets, laptops, smart speakers and smart watches.

The same goes for anything that runs on alkaline batteries, like toys, small household appliances and flashlights. Not only can they fail in freezing temps, they can also corrode if exposed to water — a real possibility if a pipe bursts during a big freeze).

Bike Security Best Practices

On average, nearly 200,000 bicycles are reported stolen each year. Don’t let yours be next. A little extra care, along with the locks and solutions recommended below, can help ensure yours stays safe.

• Pick a smart lock spot. Ideally it will be anchored to the ground and hard to tamper with.
• Don’t count on cameras or crowds. The former don’t typically help once the thief has succeeded, and the latter can actually help detract attention from a theft-in-progress.
• Don’t forget the frame. Secure the frame, not just the front or rear wheel. Many bikes have quick-release levers attaching the wheel to the frame, allowing a thief to swipe the bike with a flick of the thumb.
• Lock high. As high up on the bike as you can. If the cable, chain or U-lock is on the ground, it’s easier for a prepared thief to use an angle grinder or bolt cutters, with the ground as extra leverage.

GE Simulated Security Camera

Tough and dependable, GE’s simulated security camera is ready for both indoor and outdoor use. This device offers a security presence, real or imagined, rain or shine. Its waterproof, rotating head replicates a high-tech, bullet-style security camera for an inexpensive price.

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Best Overall Security Camera

Reolink Argus Pro Outdoor Security Camera

See in high definition day or night with the Argus Pro+Solar Panel system, which can capture video up to 11 yards away in the dark of night with a 130-degree field of view. Voice control with Alexa allows you to adjust and see your live feed with voice commands, and a built-in microphone and speaker allows you to let anyone know they’re being watched. Video is recorded onto an SD memory card, and footage can be accessed and played back from anywhere at any time.

The no-wire installation process is quick and simple, and the camera easily connects to your home Wi-Fi network. These best solar security cameras have also shown their mettle in weatherproof testing, proving they’re more than capable of standing up to harsh weather conditions.

Pros

• Controlled via smartphone app
• 130-degree wide field of vision
• No subscription required
• Easy to install with a two-year warranty

Cons

• Requires Wi-Fi connection

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To combat this rise, stores are resorting to new tactics to thwart would-be thieves. The Home Depot has partnered with manufacturers to sell power tools that require Bluetooth activation when purchased. That means if a thief walks out with a power saw, it can’t be turned on, rendering it useless. This way a retailer can keep oft-stolen items on display instead of locking them up.

Scott Glenn, The Home Depot’s vice president of asset protection, told Insider  he didn’t want to alter the shopping experience for the 99.5 percent of customers who come in to honestly purchase their goods. “We don’t want to look like an armed encampment,” Glenn said.

Here’s what you can do to maintain your home all year long.

Painting Your Home 

One of the most common home renovation projects you may consider within the first year of moving into your new space is painting your room or multiple rooms. We’ve included some tips and techniques on how to paint different parts of your house — including the living room, as well as girls’ and boys’ bedrooms — and also offer some ideas on which colors might set just the tone you’re looking for.

Window Treatments 

When you move into your new home, you’ll want just the right coverage on your windows to illuminate or darken your rooms while at the same, show off your own sense of style. Whether you’re looking for curtains for your living room or smart blinds for your bedroom, here are some inspirational ideas on how you can liven up your windows in an artful way.

Insulation  

No matter what season it is, it’s important for you to make sure that you have proper insulation in your house. Learn about the different insulations types for your attic and how to prevent frozen pipes during the cold season.

Landscaping  

What your home looks like on the outside is just as important as what it looks like on the inside. Whether you have a small or large yard, we have a variety of landscaping ideas that’ll shape the look and feel of your home. If you’re a gardener, you should consider soil testing the areas of your yard where you plan on growing plants and/or vegetables.

Upgrades and Replacements  

What are some DIY jobs you can tackle when an appliance or part of your home system breaks down? Learn some of the basics — from how to fix a doorbell to replacing a lightbulb when it goes out.

Maintenance 

Home maintenance doesn’t have to be a burden if you stay on top of problems when they arise. Whether you’re checking your sump pump, installing new smoke alarms, or caulking windows, there’s always something to do to ensure your home is healthy and up to code. Consider creating a home maintenance checklist for every season.

Annual

Year-round home maintenance is crucial if you don’t want to end up paying for a big repair. As a first-time buyer, we have a beginner’s guide to home maintenance so you’ll know the ins and outs on checking items like smoke alarms, water pressure and cleaning out your air conditioning units.

Electrical Safety Checks Video

Seasonal

Every season brings different home maintenance responsibilities. For winter maintenance, you obviously need to check if your heating systems are ready to go and that you don’t have any air leaking through your windows. For spring maintenance, make sure your home is free of pests — especially cockroaches — and take time to do exterior woodwork, roof inspections and to check your sprinkler systems. For summer maintenance, keep your cooling systems in check and schedule any major outdoor projects then. And last but not least, fall maintenance can involve anything from aerating the soil, cleaning your gutters to cleaning your chimney.

Monthly

Here are some helpful home maintenance tips that you should do every month to keep your systems in good standing.

Basic Projects for New Homeowners

If you’re new to the DIY world, we’ve got you covered! Learn how to start a garden, repair a broken pipe, fix an appliance or even use a leaf blower. Whether you’re doing something as common as painting a room or learning the more involved steps of fertilizing your lawn, tackling these types of projects will build your confidence and equip you to be a more informed and seasoned homeowner.

• How to Prune Your Garden: Spring is an ideal time for getting rid of the unwanted parts of your plants, but you can also prune during the early summer and late fall months. Think of yourself as a sculptor as you shape your plants, make room for new growth and keep your garden healthy.
• How to Repair Your Office Chair: Does your office chair need fixing? If your chair doesn’t bounce or has a hard time rolling, all you need is some basic tools and parts to rebuild it.

Basic Tools to Use

With all the projects on your list, you’re going to need some basic tools to get the job done right. If have plans to build a deck or some other substantial project, you’ll need an impact drill. Boring holes in wood or metal? Then you’ll want to purchase a drill press. For chores that help keep the exterior of your home clean and tidy, look into a pressure washer to clean off old paint and a leaf blower to maintain your landscaping.

More New Homeowner Tips and Information

Here are some additional tips and information that could help best prepare you to make the right decisions as a new homeowner — from checking your electrical and HVAC systems, compiling a list of contractors for needed repairs and creating an inventory of all your valuable assets you’ll be moving in with.

New Homeowner Products

There’s no shortage of things you could buy for your new house. It’s a list that could get long and very expensive pretty quickly. The key here is to focus in on what you need. Use this list for guidance and know what to avoid.

New Homeowner Resources 

If you have any questions on products that you’re considering purchasing for your home, these national home improvement chains are tried-and-true resources.

If you enjoyed this content, sign up for our new homeowner newsletter where we’ll guide you through the exciting journey of what to do before you purchase your dream house as well as give you expert tips and projects to help you make that new house a true home.

Beware the WiFi Sneak

WiFi is a hot commodity. Especially now, when remote work and school are critical to everyday life and people are spending hours online when many outside attractions are closed.

If you’re lucky enough to enjoy good, working Internet during this time, that’s great. But could someone else be taking advantage of your connection? Here’s how to know if someone is stealing your WiFi, and what to do about it. Plus, check out these WiFi extenders and boosters that will quicken your connection.

ADT has been a familiar name in home security for a long time. Here’s how the company compares with the newer players in the ever-expanding high-tech home monitoring market.

What is ADT?

ADT is a customizable, pro-installed home security system with continuous monitoring. The company began in 1874 as American District Telegraph, with a residential call box developed in response to a break-in. That makes ADT the oldest home security company in the United States by a long shot. More recently ADT has evolved beyond home monitoring into connected home automation appliances, devices and detectors, including through popular smart home assistants Alexa and Google.

How Does ADT Work?

Start by getting a quote. That price will vary depending on contractors in your area. Go through ADT directly at ADT.com, or Google “ADT home security” to compare contractors. One factor to consider: If you go with ADT, you lease their equipment and are required to return it should you change providers down the road.

To ensure coverage in your area, ADT has six strategically placed monitoring centers across the United States. If there’s ever a weather event affecting your nearest monitoring center, another will step in for seamless home monitoring.

ADT and Third-Party Equipment

ADT uses a third party to manufacture their equipment, which can affect quality control. They also use third-party installation contractors.

Protectyourhome.com is the only third-party contractor with the title of ADT’s Authorized Premier Provider. Using Protectyourhome.com in no way guarantees a smooth and successful installation, nor gear that won’t break down. However, ADT doesn’t make you sign a contract until after the equipment install — helpful if you’re not totally satisfied with your third-party contractor.

How Much Does ADT Home Security Cost?

A basic plan costs less than $30 a month, providing three door/window sensors, an infrared motion detector and 24-hour alarm monitoring. It doesn’t include cameras or home automation. ADT’s most comprehensive plans top out at just under $60 per month, which includes security cameras, video surveillance and smart home automation capabilities accessible through an app and a touchscreen panel/control center.

Note that installation will run you another $100 to $200, depending on the equipment, installer, region and monthly plan. And you may want to add a warranty/quality service plan ($7/month) to save your bank account from unexpected service calls or equipment malfunction.

It’s also worth noting that you’ll likely lock into a 36-month contract upon sign-up.

Overall, the price is on par with other pro-installed security companies, although with ADT you can’t keep your equipment when you cancel.

Best Trail Bird Feeder Camera

Like most remote cameras (AKA game or trail), the Campark Mini Trail Camera is triggered by movement so it doesn’t require you to be there to snap bird pictures. Features include a 120 degree wide-angle lens for a bigger detecting range and 850nm (nanometer) infrared LEDs to catch birds unaware, even at night.

Smaller than most cameras in its class, making it perfectly pocketable, it’s super tough and waterproof. The bird feeder camera comes with a mounting belt and tripod. Despite a few downsides — it’s not WiFi capable, and SD card and batteries are not included — it ranks high on many nature cameras “best of” lists.

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Installing a Pool

A new pool is a great way to beat the summer heat and have friends and family gather at your home. However, pools come with certain expenses, including your insurance. Homeowners are liable for anyone using their pool, and that means a bump in the cost of your home policy, according to Value Penguin.