What are common misconceptions about breaking and entering?

The misconception that physical force must be used to establish breaking arises from a misunderstanding of how breaking and entering is defined legally. In many jurisdictions, "breaking" can refer to any unauthorized entry into a structure, not solely through visible force. This can include gaining entry through open doors, unlocked windows, or using tools that do not necessarily involve brute force. The law recognizes a variety of methods as breaking, which may not require physical damage or forceful entry, thus making it crucial to understand that the absence of force does not negate the act of entering unlawfully.

The other options highlight various misunderstandings within the topic, such as limiting the scope of breaking and entering to only commercial properties, which overlooks residential scenarios; overlooking the fact that electronic or digital entry can also be considered breaking in the context of cybersecurity; and assuming that breaking always involves theft, ignoring cases where the intention might be different, such as trespassing or intent to commit another crime.