Dire economic conditions have been blamed for a steep rise in housebreaking incidents in Moray.
The latest police figures show an increase in the numbers of break-ins and attempts from 175 to 225.
However, the statistics also showed a drop in most other types of crime within the region.
Chief Superintendent Mark McLaren, the divisional commander for Aberdeenshire and Moray, said: “The general assessment is that this rise in housebreaking is a reflection of the economic conditions right now.
“But it’s of no comfort to me that this rise reflects trends elsewhere in Scotland.
“We’re making great progress in terms of keeping people safe but we have still got more work to do in terms of what I’d call ‘acquisitive crime’. It’s on our radar.
“We have launched several campaigns urging residents to lock their doors and leave their property secure when unattended.”
However, Douglas Ross, the chairman of Moray Council’s police scrutiny committee questioned whether poverty was really to blame for the rise in housebreaking.
He said: “We’ve been in the current economic climate for some time.
“I’m not convinced that it’s the main factor. Instead, I think we have probably grown used to living in a safe environment where crime levels are relatively low.
“I do agree with Chief Superintendent McLaren that we all need to be more vigilant and take care to keep property secure.”
Councillor Graham Leadbitter’s ward includes the Elgin home of Lena Hay, a 90-year-old deaf woman who died shortly after being broken into just before Christmas.
Mr Leadbitter said: “Housebreaking is the type of crime we might expect to see an increase in during tough times. But economic conditions are never an excuse to break in to someone else’s home.
“I’m pleased the police have confirmed that it’s an area that has to be focused on because it causes an enormous amount of distress to the victims.
“The perpetrators need to be held accountable for their actions.
“However, I would add that we need to get things in perspective.”
“Overall crime is now the lowest it’s been in Moray for 38 years,” she added.