Do Security Cameras Really Deter Burglars? (Here’s What the Data Says)
They’re on every porch—but do they actually work?
You’ve probably seen a dozen videos of porch pirates being caught on camera, or read a story about someone identifying a thief thanks to home footage. But how much of that is luck—and how much is proof that cameras actually scare off intruders?
We dug into the research, interviewed a few security experts, and found out what really happens when the red light starts blinking.
What Burglars Say
In multiple studies where convicted burglars were interviewed, the message was surprisingly clear:
Cameras make a difference.
A University of North Carolina study found that 60% of burglars said they would skip a house entirely if they saw a camera or security system in place. For many, it’s simply not worth the risk.
Another survey by the U.S. Department of Justice showed similar results: visibility is key. Most intruders aren’t criminal masterminds—they’re looking for easy targets.
Cameras = Risk = Deterrence
It’s not just about catching someone in the act. It’s about the psychology of being watched.
Burglars know:
- Cameras record evidence
- Footage is timestamped and stored (especially with cloud-based systems like ADT’s)
- Police are more likely to identify and apprehend them
So the logic is simple: if they can’t move unseen, they’ll move on.
What Kind of Cameras Work Best?
Visible cameras are your first line of defense. Think doorbell cams, front porch cams, and driveway monitoring.
Smart features like motion-activated alerts, night vision, and two-way audio add an extra layer. Imagine someone approaching your home only to hear a voice say, “Can I help you?”—yeah, they’ll leave.
ADT’s outdoor and indoor cams offer all of the above, plus:
- Real-time alerts to your phone
- 24/7 recording with cloud backup
- Seamless integration with the rest of your system
The Numbers Say Yes—But So Does Common Sense
While studies back it up, you don’t need a research paper to know this:
People are less likely to break into a house if they know they’ll be seen, recorded, and identified.
Final Word: It’s Not Just Tech—It’s Trust
Having a camera doesn’t mean you’ll never be targeted. But it drastically improves your chances of deterring, detecting, and documenting anything that goes wrong.
And when your cameras are part of a professionally monitored ADT system, you’re not just collecting footage—you’re actively protecting your home.
Need help setting up the right camera system for your home?
Homesense101 will guide you to the best ADT package for your property, your budget, and your peace of mind.
