What is the term for unauthorized entry into a property?

Trespassing is the legal term used to refer to the act of entering someone's property without permission or legal right. This violation occurs when an individual crosses the boundary of a property without the owner's consent, regardless of the intent behind the action. In typical scenarios, trespassing does not involve any theft or intent to commit a crime beyond the unauthorized entry itself.

Understanding this term is important for security professionals, as they need to be aware of property boundaries and the rights of property owners. Recognizing when trespassing occurs allows security guards to take appropriate actions, such as warning the individual or contacting law enforcement if necessary.

Other terms listed for this question have distinct meanings. Burglary involves not only unauthorized entry but also the intent to commit a crime inside the property, usually theft. Loitering refers to remaining in a particular public place for a prolonged period without apparent purpose, which doesn't necessarily involve entering property without authorization. Intrusion may refer broadly to unwelcome or unauthorized entry but is less specific compared to the legal term "trespassing." Understanding these nuances enhances the effectiveness of security personnel in protecting property and enforcing laws.