Burglars from Chile are taking advantage of an exclusive visa-waiver agreement to fly into the United States and burglarize homes without prior vetting, according to authorities. This alarming trend has emerged as roving international crime gangs target communities across the country, using sophisticated online tools to plan their robberies.
The allure of easy targets and lax security has drawn South American criminals to the United States, where they exploit a visa-waiver agreement that allows Chilean citizens to enter the country without prior vetting. These "burglary tourists" fly in, carrying out their crimes in targeted communities before returning home undetected.
The Menace of 'Burglary Tourists': South American Criminals Exploit U.S. Visa Exemption to Rob American Homes
California, Michigan, and Arizona have all experienced a surge in such burglaries, with law enforcement agencies struggling to contain the problem. Authorities have identified online tools as a major facilitator of these crimes, providing criminals with detailed information about potential targets.
Real estate websites like Zillow, Redfin, and Realtor.com often display high-definition interior photos of homes, which criminals can use to plan their burglaries. These sites also allow users to create 360-degree video tours, offering a comprehensive view of every nook and cranny of a property.
The Menace of 'Burglary Tourists': South American Criminals Exploit U.S. Visa Exemption to Rob American Homes
Former NYPD detective Pat Brosnan, now a security expert, warns that these online platforms give criminals "more relevant data and intel than [binoculars] and a vehicle outside the home." They can identify alarm systems, secondary points of entry, and even the location of security cameras.
Sharon Polsky, president of the Privacy & Access Council of Canada, highlights the utility of Google Maps imagery for car thieves. Criminals can scout potential targets, looking for vehicles that match their preferences and identifying security measures that need to be overcome.
The Menace of 'Burglary Tourists': South American Criminals Exploit U.S. Visa Exemption to Rob American Homes
To protect themselves, homeowners are advised to avoid displaying photos of their security cameras and other security features on real estate websites. They should also limit photos of their home at night, which could reveal the location of motion-activated spotlights.
Experts recommend having homes blurred on Google Maps Streetview and claiming ownership of listings on real estate websites. This allows homeowners to remove photos or the entire listing, protecting their privacy and deterring criminals.
The Menace of 'Burglary Tourists': South American Criminals Exploit U.S. Visa Exemption to Rob American Homes
Limiting online activity is also crucial, as social media posts about vacations or extended absences can alert criminals to unoccupied homes.
Authorities recommend installing prominent security cameras and signage for alarm systems, befriending neighbors, and having trusted friends or neighbors check on homes when away.
The Menace of 'Burglary Tourists': South American Criminals Exploit U.S. Visa Exemption to Rob American Homes
