British holidaymakers have discovered a brilliantly simple yet effective security hack that's taking social media by storm - and it could be the key to keeping your home safe while you're soaking up the sun abroad.
The clever trick, which has gone viral on TikTok, involves using smart plugs and ordinary lamps to create the illusion that someone is home, potentially deterring would-be burglars who often target empty properties during peak holiday seasons.
The Viral Security Sensation
Content creator Georgia Fielding, known online as @georgiafielding, shared her ingenious method with over 100,000 followers, demonstrating how she sets up lamps around her home connected to smart plugs. These are then programmed to turn on and off at different times throughout the evening, creating the perfect lived-in appearance that suggests residents are moving between rooms.
"This is my top tip for going on holiday," Georgia explains in her viral video. "Get yourself a smart plug, put a lamp on it, and set it on a timer to come on when it gets dark and turn off when you would usually go to bed."
Why This Hack Works
Security experts have long advised that visible signs of occupancy are among the most effective burglary deterrents. According to UK crime statistics, homes that appear unoccupied are significantly more likely to be targeted by opportunistic thieves.
The smart plug method offers several advantages over traditional timer switches:
- Randomisation: Modern smart plugs allow for varying on/off times rather than fixed patterns
- Remote control: Adjust settings from anywhere via smartphone apps
- Multi-room simulation: Multiple plugs can create movement patterns throughout the home
- Energy efficiency: Only uses power when needed, unlike leaving lights on constantly
Additional Security Measures
While the lamp trick provides an excellent first line of defence, security professionals recommend combining this with other precautions:
- Suspend mail and newspaper deliveries to prevent build-up that signals absence
- Ask trusted neighbours to occasionally park in your driveway
- Avoid social media posts that reveal you're away until after you return
- Consider smart doorbells that allow you to monitor property remotely
- Ensure all doors and windows are properly secured before departure
Budget-Friendly Security
The beauty of this hack lies in its accessibility. Basic smart plugs are available from major retailers for under £10, making professional-level security achievable for nearly every household. For those wanting to enhance the effect, multiple plugs can be synchronised to create more complex lighting patterns throughout different rooms.
As one commenter noted on Georgia's original video: "We do this and also have a radio come on for a few hours too! Makes it sound like someone is home."
This low-cost, high-impact approach to home security demonstrates how modern technology can provide peace of mind for travellers without breaking the bank. As summer holiday season approaches, this simple trick might just be the most valuable travel accessory you pack - even if it never leaves your home.
