Amid the age of viral social media trends, a new “life hack” for home security has sparked a heated discussion online. A video of how to hide gold jewelry from burglars has gone viral, but experts say sharing such “secret” tips may be doing more harm than good.
The Viral “Genius” Trick
Video shows a woman hiding small gold items rings and earrings in an area no one would bother to look inside. She removes the ornamental end cap of a hollow curtain rod, pops the jewelry inside, then replaces the cap. A basic standard window fixture to the naked eye, a clever hiding place that can skirt through traditional suspects like cupboards, drawers, or under-mattress safes.
Two Views: Innovation and Exposure
The clip has taken millions of views, and it’s opened a debate among opinions in the comments section:
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The Supporters
Many of the users said they appreciated the creativity because, the burglars are often quick and will look only at obvious places, such as a wardrobe. “This is a really good quick fix that comes in handy when you’re traveling,” one user said. The Critics: A broader population of skeptics sounded the alarm that was understandable.
They contend that in going viral, spreading this trick, the “secret” is no longer a secret. “Do people think thieves don’t have internet access?” questioned one concerned viewer. After this hack gained public attention, critics argue, curtain rods may be the first thing a tech-savvy thief thinks about. It’s Just the Hidden Danger of ‘Smart Hacks.’
Prior to computerization, it was common to hide money in rice containers or old-time books, and in the digital age there have been hacks that used switchboards, fake ceilings and hollowed out furniture. As these videos go viral, cyber-security and crime experts say their value as a security measure goes down to zero. By airing these methods, homeowners are effectively furnishing a “manual” for modern burglars. Rather than rifling through rags, criminals now know to use the tools of social media to scout for anomalies in fixtures in the house.
How to Get True Security: Expert Tips
As you head off to vacation or feel apprehensive about safety, keep these down-to-earth tips in mind:
- Bank Lockers: A bank locker is still the gold standard for security for high-value gold and heirloom jewelry.
- CCTV & Alarms: A smart security system that includes motion sensors is far better than "clever" hiding.
- The first key is that: Real security is not showing, but hiding. If you discover an unusual spot to hide your belongings, do not post it online not even among a group of friends.
Do Not Use Patterns: Thieves seek patterns
If you do take the "viral" hack, you take a pattern that has already been mapped out by thousands of others. The takeaway? Real security lies in long standing measures and discretion, not the latest “hack” trend.