How can I secure my old apartment when I'm worried about break-ins?

Someone recommended WiFi-based home security where I can monitor things remotely. It sounds useful for checking on my cat, but I’m worried about the possibility of a very skilled intruder who could hack or bypass such systems.

This isn’t a house but an old art deco apartment, with no security features. I once watched a locksmith open the front door in seconds. Moving isn’t an option right now.

How would you secure a place like this?

Security isn’t about making your home impenetrable; it’s about making it less attractive to break into. Get a solid lock, maybe a deadbolt, and consider basic alarm systems. If you’re worried about high-tech burglars, therapy might help more than trying to turn your apartment into Fort Knox.

@Noel
Thanks for the advice. It’s hard to accept, but you’re probably right. It’s more about peace of mind than complete prevention, I guess. Still, it feels like a losing battle.

evanderjames said:
@Noel
Thanks for the advice. It’s hard to accept, but you’re probably right. It’s more about peace of mind than complete prevention, I guess. Still, it feels like a losing battle.

Is someone actively targeting you? If so, you might want to document any incidents and consider legal options like a restraining order. Cameras can still be useful even if they’re not foolproof.

@Rich
There is someone, but proving it is difficult without evidence. Cameras could help, but I worry they might not capture anything if tampered with.

evanderjames said:
@Noel
Thanks for the advice. It’s hard to accept, but you’re probably right. It’s more about peace of mind than complete prevention, I guess. Still, it feels like a losing battle.

Therapy isn’t about ignoring real threats; it’s about managing the fear and anxiety that comes with them. It might be worth exploring while you work on practical solutions.

@Noel
I’ll think about it. I’ve tried therapy before for other issues, and it helped back then. Maybe it’s time for a check-in anyway.

Focus on making your place less inviting. Use visible deterrents like better locks, cameras, and maybe even a security sign. Most intruders won’t bother with a place that looks secure when easier targets are nearby.

Are you more worried about someone picking your locks or bypassing cameras? Your post seems to suggest both are concerns.

Nigel said:
Are you more worried about someone picking your locks or bypassing cameras? Your post seems to suggest both are concerns.

Both, really. It feels like no matter what I do, someone determined could bypass it. That’s what makes it so unsettling.

@evanderjames
If you’re truly worried, start by improving your locks and consider non-WiFi options for cameras. Also, get a carbon monoxide detector—it might sound unrelated, but high levels can cause paranoia.

@Malcolm
I hadn’t thought about that, but I’ll look into it. Thanks for the practical suggestions.

For peace of mind, go for a paid alarm service like ADT or FrontPoint. Combine it with better locks, cameras, and maybe motion-detecting lights. The goal is to make your apartment less appealing to potential intruders.

Upgrade your locks, add window sensors, and use visible cameras. Motion lights are great too. If you’re concerned about someone bypassing cameras, make sure they’re wired and store footage locally.

Guard4Hire said:
Upgrade your locks, add window sensors, and use visible cameras. Motion lights are great too. If you’re concerned about someone bypassing cameras, make sure they’re wired and store footage locally.

Thanks for the tips. I’ll look into wired systems and local storage options.

Avoid WiFi systems if you’re worried about hacking. Go for a wired setup with local storage. It’s harder to tamper with and doesn’t rely on the internet.

Derek said:
Avoid WiFi systems if you’re worried about hacking. Go for a wired setup with local storage. It’s harder to tamper with and doesn’t rely on the internet.

Good point. Thanks for the advice!

Unless you’re hiding classified documents, most burglars aren’t going to be high-tech masterminds. A good lock and visible deterrents will keep most away. Try not to overthink it.

In real life, burglars aren’t hacking your cameras or locks like in movies. A visible camera and good lock are usually enough to deter opportunists.