What makes your home a target for criminals in South Africa

• The aspects of a home that make it an attractive target for opportunistic criminals in South Africa include homes with little visible investment in physical security, allowing properties to appear easy to break into, and being away for extended periods.
• According to SAPS data, South Africa recorded 32,387 home burglary cases and 4,507 house robberies between January and March 2026, with most burglars being opportunistic but spending time observing neighbourhoods and watching residents' routines.
• Homeowners are being warned to prioritize both digital and physical security, with physical barriers such as high perimeter walls having unintended consequences, and security experts advising a professional assessment to identify vulnerabilities and implement effective security measures.