The latest trend in automotive accessories is the “sticker family” window decal set. For many suburban families thinking twice about placing character stickers of family members never happens, because most families are following others in the neighborhood. What most families forget are the security risks associated with advertising specifics about their family to the wrong people.
Below are a few reasons why you should think twice about placing a “stick figure sticker family” decal on the back window of your vehicle:
1) Knowing if there is an Animal at Home: The dog sticker indicates that there is a canine (or multiple in some cases) in the home. A burglar may only seek homes with cats or no pets to make a break-in easier. There is less of a chance of a loud animal waking up the homeowner or causing the neighbors to call the police if there is no animal present.
2) Listing Family Names or Nicknames: Never volunteer personal information if you do not have to. A criminal can take your children’s nicknames and use them for deceitful purposes when you least expect it. Combined with one of their hobbies or interests, they may pose as a family friend and lure your child into harm’s way. Think twice about advertising personal information.
3) Showing Size and Stature: An intruder my only be targeting families with small children as teenagers may pose a physical threat during a break-in. Additionally, indicating that there is just a toddler or baby in the house may welcome an intruder in as they know the family is small and threats have been reduced.
Just because other families in the neighborhood are placing these types of stickers on their back windows doesn’t mean that your family has to follow. From a security perspective you are putting your family at a far greater risk than not putting the stickers on and following the trend. Think twice about putting these types of decals on your vehicle if you can avoid it.