ATLANTA -- A string of break-ins targeting metro Atlanta homes is making residents nervous – especially once they realize not even security systems are stopping the robbers.

Brazen burglars are spreading fear throughout parts of metro Atlanta. They are breaking into homes with security systems and taking off before police can arrive.

The break-ins are taking place in an area between Clairmont Road and Northlake Mall.

At the Thobani house, window sensors are going in upstairs. The alarm company is installing more secure locks. The family decided to upgrade their security system after learning about the break-ins.

Salim Thobani says, “Everybody was scared, especially my wife.”

The Thobani’s live in Briarcliff Commons. A few weeks ago, someone smashed in the back window of a home during the middle of the day and quickly stole valuables. They were out before anyone responded to the alarm.

Break-ins like that have been a growing problem in the Lavista-Briarcliff Road areas. In one day someone Nalley Circle burglarized 4 homes.

Resident Alison Paz says, “We have had cases where they’ve taken jewelry, cash, a laptop and some cases – nothing at all.”

Amy Benninger who lives off Briarcliff Road learned about the break-ins in a neighborhood e-mail. During her walks, she’s been extra alert. She says, “If I see somebody disappear behind a house like I saw over in this other neighborhood, Kingscliff, I went right to the neighbors and said ‘look there’s a guy over there.”

Resident Vickie Harrison says, “Makes you aware, even to your truck – I was watching to see if it was a real TV truck or not because police have said they could be dressed up as anything.”