Criminals Exploit Zillow Home Photos to Plan Break-Ins; Experts Advise Quick Removal
PHOENIX, Ariz. — As the digital age continues to reshape how we buy and sell homes, a new security concern has emerged: criminals are using real estate websites like Zillow to meticulously plan break-ins. Detailed photos and floor plans posted online remain accessible for years after a home sale, offering thieves a virtual blueprint of entry points, security cameras, and interior layouts.
Retired FBI Supervisory Special Agent James Gagliano and former NYPD detective Darrin Porcher have highlighted how burglars can “case” a home remotely, using nothing more than publicly available listing photos and information. In Riverside, California, police have confirmed that detectives frequently find Zillow and Redfin searches on phones seized from arrested suspects, underscoring the widespread use of these platforms for criminal reconnaissance.
One stark example occurred in Scottsdale, Arizona, where two teenagers disguised as delivery drivers forced their way into a couple’s home, assaulting the residents while searching for $66 million in cryptocurrency. The attackers obtained the victims’ address through encrypted apps, but the detailed home layout and security details were easily accessible through real estate listings.
Similarly, a retired couple in Delray Beach, Florida, experienced a violent home invasion after thieves shattered their sliding glass door. The assailants had acquired the address from leaked personal data, then exploited online listings to plan their attack. This criminal crew later targeted multiple victims across several states.
Experts warn that the risk is not limited to high-profile cases. The availability of high-resolution images and virtual tours on sites like Zillow can reveal security camera locations, window placements, and even furniture arrangements, all of which can aid burglars in evading detection.
Homeowners concerned about their digital footprint can take immediate action to remove their property photos from Zillow. The process, which can be completed in under 10 minutes, involves submitting a removal request through Zillow’s official website. This step is crucial to limit the exposure of potentially sensitive information.
For detailed instructions on how to remove your home from Zillow, the Zillow Help Center provides a straightforward guide. Additionally, homeowners are encouraged to review privacy settings on other real estate platforms to ensure their information is not publicly accessible.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation offers resources on home security and crime prevention, emphasizing the importance of vigilance in the digital era. The FBI’s burglary prevention tips recommend securing all entry points and being cautious about what personal information is shared online.
The Department of Justice also highlights the evolving tactics of criminals who exploit technology to facilitate traditional crimes. Their Cybercrime and Technology Crime Section provides insights into how digital platforms can be misused and how citizens can protect themselves.
As real estate websites continue to serve millions of users, balancing transparency with security remains a challenge. Homeowners are urged to proactively manage their online presence and consult trusted resources like the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency for best practices on safeguarding personal information.
In an age where a simple online search can reveal intimate details of one’s home, taking swift action to limit exposure is more important than ever.
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