Smooth Criminals: 6 Home Robbery Specialists And Their Stories

While the vast majority of home burglaries go unsolved, there are a number of thieves willing to both admit their crime and explain how they did it. This is good news for homeowners looking to protect their families and belongings. If you're interested in the inside scoop on personal robberies, here are six stories from self-confessed crooks.

1. Bill Mason

Don't tell your Realtor everything you know. That's how Bill Mason, a famous jewel thief, managed to steal millions in gems and precious stones: He would pose as a potential buyer for a neighboring home while subtly pumping the real estate agent for information on its home security measures.

2. Ignacio Del Rio

Do you lock your balcony door? Because that's how Ignacio Del Rio made his fortune. Instead of bothering with dogs and alarms on the ground, he used a grappling hook to climb the walls of a house and simply waltz right in upper-level doors and windows.

3. Colton Harris-Moore

Better known as the "Barefoot Bandit," Colton Harris-Moore began thieving as a young runway. He would take off his shoes, enter darkened homes and make off with as much food and as many valuables as he could carry. The moral of the story: Don't trust a stranger just because they're young, barefoot and seemingly bereft.

4. The James Bond Gang

This group of thieves made a name for themselves by stealing in a highly efficient manner. They typically broke in, head straight for the master bedroom, and are gone within a matter of minutes. If you own a safe or any other seemingly impenetrable vault, make sure it isn't portable...

5. Blane David Nordahl

A lifelong burglar, Blane David Nordahl operated in the middle of the night, sneaking up to homes while the occupants were asleep. He would then quietly and painstakingly remove the panes of French glass doors in order to reach the doorknob and open it from the inside without triggering any alarms. Don't rely on noise-makers alone to protect you!

6. Madhukar Mohandas Prabhakar

Still at large, Madhukar Mohandas Prabhakar is living like a king after robbing countless homes all over the world. He calls India his home. The police can't catch him because he's always careful, staking out potential homes for weeks before making his move. If you notice any strangers lurking around your home, don't ignore your gut feeling about their intentions.

These are just a few stories from successful thieves. There are many more, of course, but if you don't want to become part of them, it's time to lock down your valuables and invest in a home security system. Home alarm installations are becoming more and more common and the prices are competitive.