Complimentary Story
May 2026To my readers, please accept my sincere thanks for allowing me a place in your busy schedule. I consider it an honor to write for this publication, and a privilege that I don’t approach lightly. I think we can all agree that our world is becoming more uncertain and increasingly dangerous, which presents more of a threat to us, especially as we get older. In that spirit and drawing from my own personal and professional experiences, I want to provide you with an overview of the tools I use to protect myself and loved ones so we can remain both independent and safe.
It’s likely that you’ve seen the news reports about Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old Tucson resident and mother of Today Show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, who was abducted from her home during the early hours of February 1. Her blood was found near her front door, and the chilling images of a masked, hooded, and armed person were recovered from doorbell-camera footage. It’s been over three months and Nancy Guthrie, who lived alone in a suburban neighborhood many of us would consider safe, remains missing.
Although I could write extensively about the many seemingly bizarre aspects of this case, I’m instead prompted to provide insight into the items I’ve successfully used to protect my home and family. This is information you can use, starting now, to lower your risks of becoming a victim.
No Tech - Low Tech
First, the strongest defenses are often the simplest and don’t involve technology: reinforced deadbolts, motion-activated (not constant) outdoor lights, and peepholes on doors. These have proven effective long before our reliance on technology. No subscriptions, data sharing, or constant internet connectivity is required.
I know that most of us regard these things as common sense items, but please don’t skip this step like I once did. Glossing over these small things not only resulted in a loss of my property but allowed my insurance company to deny my claim. It was a painful and costly lesson.
Here’s my basic, no-tech needed “must-have” or “must-do” list: Install reinforced deadbolt locks on all exterior doors; use strike plates with long screws for added strength. Add peepholes or door viewers so you can see visitors without opening the door. Replace your current outdoor lights with motion-activated (non-smart) outdoor lights. Secure all first-floor windows with sturdy locks or pins. For added privacy, I use security film on glass and certain windows. There are different types of window film, from basic to the more decorative. Most varieties can be purchased at your local big box hardware store or online. Again, please do not skip this step!
Tech
Anyone who knows me knows that I’m no fan of any devices that constantly watch or collect data. Concerns for my own privacy prompted me to spend more time researching different devices than I care to admit. I know people who have opted for the convenience of “smart” devices they use throughout their home, but I’ve discovered those devices can be defeated or even hijacked. You can decide for yourself, but for me, the risks outweigh the benefits.
Having completed my research and finished with the no-tech/low-tech, common-sense items, I divided my personal security plan into three areas: video doorbells, video camera systems, and home alarm systems. I found that certain well-chosen devices can provide peace of mind without compromising my privacy — or worse. Please note that this is not an endorsement of any specific product or service. I am merely sharing what I found works best for me.
Video Doorbells
Why I use: To deter home invasions, stranger robberies, and package scams.
There are several types and brands of video doorbells on the market such as Google Nest, Ring, and Arlo. Although they all seem to have similar features, subtle differences can make a difference, depending on your needs.
What I use: Arlo Video Doorbell (2nd Gen). This brand offers me high quality, 2K video and a wide field of view. It can be powered by a battery or installed into my existing doorbell wiring, which is my preference. The quality of video at night or in low light is excellent. It has a superior ability to distinguish between a person, vehicle, animal, or even a package. I found the privacy options to be the best for my desires yet can integrate with “smart” homes if necessary. Lastly, no subscription is required.
Where to buy: Available at nearly all big-box hardware stores and online.
Important note: After I installed a SimpliSafe home alarm system, I installed the SimpliSafe Doorbell on my front door (primary entrance) and moved this doorbell to the back door of my house. Both work extremely well and operate with or without subscription service.
Video Cameras
Why I use: Extra protection needed in addition to video doorbells; peace of mind.
Although many people find video doorbells suitable for their needs, I wanted added video security with the ability to record video at my home. I presently use an 8-camera, traditional security camera system wired to a digital video recorder (DVR) located in a secure area inside my house. The systems keep footage local on a hard drive rather than in the cloud, which greatly reduces risks to my privacy and hacking exposure. Also (and this is important), I can access my cameras from any almost anywhere on the planet, including Wisconsin(!) by using Alarm.com. It’s an added cost (monthly or annual subscription), but well worth it.
How I use: I purchased a system with access to Alarm.com, which provides app-based viewing from my phone in addition to maintaining the DVR as the primary storage. I settled on eight cameras, each having excellent night vision. The cameras cover my entire house and property, including my driveway. By using Alarm.com, I receive motion detection alerts on my phone and computer. For added peace of mind, I asked a close family member to install the same app on their phone.
What to know: I think I’ve made every mistake anyone could make, from buying the wrong type of cameras through trying to install the cameras myself. Because the wiring alone is no small job, I finally had the cameras professionally installed.
Home Security/Alarm Systems
Why I use: Deters home invasion, burglary, and other potential threats
I spent a lot of time researching home security and alarm systems, personally narrowing down my choices to two options: ADT and SimplSafe. SimpliSafe allows “DIY control” and flexible monitoring without long contracts; ADT offers professional installation and robust automation for those preferring hands-off service.
What I use: I currently use SimpliSafe with the monitoring package. I’ve used both at different times in the past but prefer the convenience and control that SimpliSafe provides.
Where to buy: Some SimpliSafe systems are sold by third-party retailers, such as Home Depot. I purchased my system directly from the SimpliSafe website as they provide a nearly fool-proof selection process.
Important note: SimpliSafe’s DIY system has a more robust end-to-end encryption model over ADT. To maintain my privacy, I’ve limited my system to basic sensors and a doorbell camera and avoided other cameras they offer.
Closing Comments
The technical tools I listed above should serve us, not control us. I try to use technology sparingly and with my eyes wide open to privacy risks. Certain technology can be invasive and result in data breaches, such as the April 2026 breach involving ADT. That incident exposed customer records and some medical-alert information, which should serve as a reminder that even “safety” devices can leak names, locations, health details, or home footage.
Also, video doorbells have been subjected to law-enforcement subpoenas and hacking concerns, especially with cloud storage. I’ve found that despite such risks, they provide me with a specific service that outweighs any hacking concerns.
I hope that you found my research, the steps I’ve taken and the devices I use to keep my home and family safe to be helpful. Practical vigilance starts with targeted steps you can take this week, so I urge you to consider taking a step or two now. In all cases, though, never forget that spiritual armor always undergirds our practical efforts. May God richly bless you and keep you safe.
HagmannPI.com
