How Unauthorized Entry Happens Daily (And How to Stop It)

Ethan Jorssen
Aug 27
2 min read

When most people think of break-ins, they picture someone sneaking in at night with a crowbar or broken window. But the truth is, unauthorized entry often happens in plain sight — every single day. From office buildings to residential complexes, small security gaps make it surprisingly easy for people to slip in unnoticed.

At Secured Property Group, we’ve seen firsthand how these everyday lapses put properties, businesses, and people at risk. The good news? Once you know how unauthorized access happens, you can take simple steps to stop it.

Man in a brown suit smiles while holding a blue folder at a glass door, greeted by a woman in a plaid shirt. Outdoor scene with trees.

1. Tailgating Through Doors

One of the most common ways unauthorized entry happens is tailgating — when someone follows right behind an employee or resident who swipes their access card. Because holding the door open feels polite, this everyday habit creates a big security weakness.

Fix: Train staff and tenants to politely discourage tailgating. Reinforce this with visible security guards or cameras at high-traffic entry points.

2. Propped-Open Doors

Delivery drivers, employees on smoke breaks, or even residents moving furniture sometimes prop doors open for convenience. Unfortunately, this gives unauthorized people an open invitation to walk in.

Fix: Install door alarms or automatic closers, and remind staff and tenants why “just a few minutes” of an open door can cause major risks.

Glass door open at a modern building entrance with brick and glass facade. Outside reflection shows trees and blue sky. Calm ambiance.

3. Outdated Locks and Keys

Traditional keys are easy to copy, lose, or even steal. Once a key is out of your control, you never really know who might have access to your building.

Fix: Consider upgrading to access cards or smart systems that can be easily updated, deactivated, or replaced. (For more details, check out our blog “Keys vs. Cards: What Access System Fits Your Building Best?”)

4. Poorly Monitored Visitor Access

Many unauthorized entries happen simply because visitors aren’t tracked. A stranger walking in with confidence often doesn’t raise suspicion — unless there’s a system in place.

Fix: Use a visitor management system at your front desk, require sign-ins, and have security personnel verify who people are meeting.

Modern reception area with a sleek white desk, computer, and black chairs. Two potted plants decorate the space. Bright and minimalist.

🚪 Not all threats come through the back door. 👉 Find out how reception areas invite risk.

5. Weak Perimeter Security

It’s not just the front door that matters. Back entrances, side gates, and underground parking lots are some of the most common spots for unauthorized access.

Fix: Regular patrols, well-lit entry points, and mobile security services make these areas harder to exploit.

Why It Matters

Every unauthorized entry, no matter how small, is a potential risk. From theft and vandalism to workplace violence, one weak point can have serious consequences.

The reality is: criminals don’t need to break in — if you accidentally let them in.

Take Action Today

Protecting your building doesn’t mean turning it into a fortress — it means being aware of daily habits and filling the gaps that let unauthorized people slip through.

👮 At Secured Property Group, we specialize in building security, mobile patrols, and concierge security services designed to prevent unauthorized entry before it happens.

👉 Want to see how security lapses can be prevented with the right plan? Check out our blog: How Security Gaps in Facility Management Can Lead to Legal and Financial Risks.