Home Security GuideCameras, monitoring and what actually deters break-ins
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What you need to know
- Enable doorbell and camera notifications for unknown visitors
- Set family password rules for account changes or service requests
- Review who is authorized on the home security account
NEW YORK, Aug. 2, 2026 —
Consumer complaints and local law-enforcement advisories are pointing to a seasonal rise in home security scams, with impostors increasingly posing as alarm technicians, utility workers and neighborhood safety inspectors to gain access to homes or gather personal information.
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Security experts say the scam tactics often begin with a phone call, text message or unannounced visit that creates a sense of urgency. In some cases, fraudsters claim a system needs immediate maintenance, a contract must be renewed or a sensor has triggered an emergency.
The goal is typically to convince homeowners to open the door, share account details or schedule a service appointment with a fake provider.
The warning comes as more households rely on connected doorbells, app-based alarm controls and remote monitoring features that make it easier for legitimate providers to help customers — and easier for criminals to imitate them.
Consumer advocates say the combination of summer travel, frequent package deliveries and empty homes can make people more vulnerable to convincing pitches.
Experts recommend that homeowners verify all service requests before opening the door or giving out information. That includes contacting the company using a number from a recent bill, the provider’s official website or a trusted customer app.
If a visitor claims to represent a utility or security company, consumers should ask for identification, request a callback number and, when possible, speak through a closed door before allowing anyone inside.
Industry Analyst said home security scams are effective because they borrow the look and language of legitimate service calls. “Homeowners are used to receiving alerts about maintenance, delivery issues and system updates, so scammers exploit that familiarity,” the analyst said.
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Consumer experts also advise households to use their security tools defensively:
- Enable doorbell and camera notifications for unknown visitors.
- Set family password rules for account changes or service requests.
- Review who is authorized on the home security account.
- Keep emergency and provider contact numbers in one secure place.
Homeowners should also be cautious about offers that arrive after a neighborhood incident, since fraudsters often use recent break-ins or storm damage to sell unnecessary upgrades or collect payment information.
Legitimate companies generally do not demand immediate cash payments at the door or pressure customers to share account credentials.
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