Guide to Everyday Crime Prevention

Split design of close-up of a hand holding a car key fob near a car door, illustrating vehicle security on the right and on the left a close-up of a hand holding a bike lock near a bike, illustrating bike security and everyday crime prevention.

Everybody (Yeah)… Lock Your Stuff

Everybody (Yeah)… Lock Your Stuff A greatest-hits guide to everyday crime prevention, with simple tips that actually work.

Backstreet Boys: “As Long as You Lock Me”

Car theft isn’t always sophisticated. More often, it comes down to simple things like unlocked doors, keys left inside, or valuables in plain sight. 

Keep it simple: 

  • Lock your car every time, even at home  
  • Don’t leave keys, fobs or valuables visible  
  • If you use keyless entry, keep keys away from doors and windows  

If it looks easy to access, it’s more likely to be targeted. 

NSYNC: “Bye Bye Bye (to Opportunistic Theft)”

Most theft isn’t carefully planned. It happens because something is left out, unattended, or easy to take. 

Quick wins: 

  • Bring deliveries inside as soon as you can  
  • Keep phones, wallets and laptops with you in public  
  • Lock doors and windows, even if you’re only out briefly  

You don’t need to overthink it. Just make things a little harder to take. 

One Direction: “One Thing… Lock the Door”

Home security usually comes down to the basics, and it’s often the small things that get missed. 

A quick “did you?” check: 

  • Lock the front and back doors  
  • Close and secure windows  
  • Leave a light on if you’re going out at night  

You don’t need to overdo it. Just take away any easy opportunities. 

Take That: “Back For Good” (What you’ll be singing when your bike gets stolen!)

Bikes, scooters and small items are easy targets because they’re easy to move. 

Make it harder: 

  • Use a solid lock and attach it to something fixed 
  • Lock through the frame, not just the wheel 
  • Avoid leaving it in the same spot every day if possible 

If it takes too much effort, most would-be thieves will move on. 

5 Seconds of Summer: “Don’t Stop… Checking Your Settings”

A lot of modern crime starts online. 

Stay one step ahead: 

  • Use strong, unique passwords (or a password manager) 
  • Turn on two-factor authentication 
  • Be cautious with unexpected links or messages 

If something feels off, it usually is. 

No dramatic breakups, no surprise solo careers, no behind-the-scenes feuds needed here. Crime prevention works best when everything stays in sync.

Keep the routine tight, stick to the basics, and don’t give easy opportunities a chance to headline. Because the real win is when nothing happens at all.

Posted on September 21, 2026

How to Report

Contact Victoria Police if the situation is urgent and requires immediate police attendance.

Contact Crime Stoppers Victoria online or over the phone if you have witnessed or know something about sexual violence or harassment.

Contact the Police Assistance Line online or over the phone for non-urgent crimes.

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