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Do Fake Security Signs Work?

We’ve recently highlighted warnings related to the cost-of-living crisis and rising crime rates, putting homes and businesses at risk. Since security systems can be very expensive people are considering alternatives such as fake security signage. In this post we respond to the question: do fake security signs work?

Here in the UK warning signs and labels are absolutely everywhere. The number of road signs for example, has exploded, doubling over the last two decades. This has prompted central government to tell local authorities they need to reduce road sign clutter. One of the points made is that signage overuse dilutes important, safety-critical messages. Also, too many road signs distracts drivers and increases the risk for road workers.

The use of warning signage has also exploded in many other areas including workplaces, public spaces, transport systems and offices. The machines we use are becoming more powerful, we are increasingly exposed to more drugs and chemicals than ever before and our daily lives are becoming more complex. Warning signs are generally used to ensure legal compliance, meet specific insurance requirements and importantly, help prevent people from experiencing injury.

For warning signage to be effective it`s important to understand what the viewer is trying to achieve and how the warning affects the attainment of their goal. People seeing warning signage effectively carry out a quick and immediate cost-benefit analysis to determine whether it`s in their interest to comply with the sign. For example, a sign stating ‘no smoking’ in a particular area may be complied with by most people. But if someone wants to have a smoke and they don’t think they will get caught, or if they don’t think the repercussions will be very severe, they may choose to disobey the warning. For some people, the immediate cost-benefit analysis tells them the risk is worth taking, but generally people are inclined to adhere to warnings.

Do Security Signs Deter Burglars?

A study involving over 400 incarcerated burglars concluded that security system signage was amongst the top 10 deterrents affecting their selection of targeted properties. But it’s important to note how this was at number 9 in the list. Practical property security enhancements such as alarms, CCTV camera systems and lighting were considered by experienced burglars to be greater deterrents.

The conclusion was that security signs that reinforce existing security measures, such as an alarm system, are the most effective signage option.

What are Fake Security Signs?

Fake security signs take many forms. Some emulate or even copy well known, recognised property security systems, stating something like: ‘This property is protected by XYZ Security Systems’ - or: ‘Property Under 24 Hour Surveillance from XYZ Security’. Signs may be direct copies of well known, reputable property alarm system signage. People display signs like these to pretend they are using recognised security systems when in fact, they aren’t.

There’s also an abundance of generic security signage people display to make false security claims. For example signs might state: ‘Warning: This Shed is Alarmed’ - when it isn’t. Or they may warn that CCTV is in operation when there isn’t any or signage might claim guard dogs are on duty, when they aren’t.

Do Fake Security Signs Work?

To consider whether fake security signs work it’s important to view them from the perspective of a prospective burglar. If they’re considering a property and they see security signage is it enough to deter them?

While fake security signage can deter some would-be housebreakers it`s important to consider the pros and cons.

Fake Security Signage: Pros

Cost and expense is one of the biggest benefits in using fake security signs. It`s obviously far cheaper to display signs telling people a property is protected with an alarm system than it is to actually buy and install an alarm system.

And that highlights another important benefit of fake security signage: ease of installation. While installing an alarm system with multiple sensors and alarm units can be complicated, as well as expensive, prominently displaying a collection of warning signs is far easier and far more affordable.

As noted, some fake security signs are specifically designed to look like well known property security brands, such as ADT. These ‘pretend’ signs are obviously far cheaper than the security systems they represent but users need to aware of potential copyright issues.

Some criminals are deterred by almost any form of security signage, prompting them to seek alternative properties to target.

Fake Security Signage: Cons

Fake security signage can deter some burglars, but those with experience are more likely to recognise the fact that signs aren’t backed up with real security precautions. Some fake signs look cheap and are easily recognised as copies of the real thing. And as previously noted, it’s important to consider the possibility of copyright infringement when using unauthorised, fake home security warning signs.

Another important consideration to keep in mind is that fake security signage can give property occupiers a false sense of security. With fake signage in place some people lower their guard and perhaps fail to take sensible, simple precautions like locking windows and securing outbuilding and garage doors.

Another important property security consideration is the fact that fake security signage actually provides no protection whatsoever. If an intruder ignores fake security signs and breaks in there will be no alarms raised and nothing recorded on CCTV because these systems aren’t in place.

Effective Ways to Safeguard Your Property

Security professionals agree that security signage can be very beneficial if used in conjunction with real security enhancements. While some of these recommendations require investment there are many property security improvements that can be made with minimal cost. Here are some key recommendations.

Beef Up Perimeter Security

We’ve previously talked about the layered approach to property security and the importance of a robust perimeter. While the establishment of a truly impenetrable perimeter around most properties is unrealistic, there are often enhancements and fixes that can make a significant difference. Inspecting an existing perimeter and fixing broken fences and gates, making gates lockable (and keeping them locked), installing anti-climb barriers and developing plant-based security boundaries are all valuable security enhancements.

Around apartment buildings it`s important to ensure all communal areas and entrances are secure. Ideally, secure door entry systems should be in place which might include video facilities. Many of the recommendations listed here can be beneficially applied around apartment buildings and communal living spaces.

If any form of anti climb device is used around a property perimeter then it`s important to prominently display relevant warning signage. For example, if anti-climb paint is applied to walls or posts (above a height of 2m) warning signage should be presented to let people know the non-setting, slippery paint is there.

 

Install Security Cameras

CCTV camera systems have become increasingly affordable in recent years. Small systems involving only one or two cameras are now within the budgets of many homeowners and can be very worthwhile investments.

One of the top recommendations made by security professionals for those living in apartments is to invest in a capable CCTV system. It`s well known in the criminal fraternity that CCTV is often the most reliable way to catch offenders.

When CCTV cameras are used it`s important to prominently display appropriate warning signage. If a potential house-breaker sees CCTV warning signs in conjunction with recognisable CCTV cameras this is a far stronger deterrent than warning signs on their own.

Set-up Motion Triggered Security Lighting

Motion detection sensors, triggering bright security lighting, is another highly effective burglar deterrent. Darkness is a burglar`s best friend. Installing motion triggered lighting to illuminate dark areas, in conjunction with CCTV cameras and warning signs, is recognised as a highly effective property security strategy.

Remove Hidden Areas

Burglars like to work unseen which is why security lighting is highly effective. But it’s also important to identify areas around a property that are concealed and take steps to prevent them from being exploited by criminals.

Cutting back shrubs and other plants to allow security lighting to illuminate these areas and monitoring them with CCTV cameras is an effective tactic.

Ensure Locks are High Quality

Most burglars gain access to properties via the windows and doors. It’s therefore essential to ensure these are all fitted with robust locks and importantly, windows and doors are always locked. Verifying doors and windows are secured when leaving a property, even for only a short period of time, is an important security precaution.

And it`s essential not to overlook doors and windows around garages, sheds and other outbuildings. When considering door and window locks it`s also vitally important not to overlook the hinges holding the doors and windows in place along with the door and window frames. While robust locks are highly effective, if the door or window hinges and frames are weak these can be easily overcome by intruders.

Make it Look Like Someone is Home

Making it look like there is someone at home when a property is in fact empty is easy to achieve. Leaving some lights on along with the TV or radio can be enough to deter a potential intruder. And if lights and devices can be switched on and off with timers, that can add to the illusion.

Install Alarms

While sophisticated property security alarm systems can be expensive, prices for small systems are becoming increasingly affordable. And there are some effective stand-alone alarm devices, such as mini magnetic door alarms, that can be used secure doors and windows around sheds, garages and outbuildings, providing alarm protection wherever it`s needed.

 

Security Signage Works When Backed Up by Real Security Measures

The bottom line is that that while fake security signs and window stickers are very affordable and they can provide some feelings of security, they don’t actually prevent break-ins. Security warning signage is most effective when used in conjunction with real property security enhancements.

If you have any questions about property security or if you have any special requirements remember we are here to help. Give us a call on 01273 475500 and we’ll provide you with free, expert advice.

This message was added on Thursday 8th September 2022