In today’s world, we all use social for keeping in touch with family and friends and updating them on what we’re doing but it could also be putting our valuables at risk.

Since the lockdown you may have noticed an increase in home and vehicle break-ins . It is obvious criminals are seeking to take advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic. Some UK celebrities’ names you may recognise have been targeted such as Comedian Alan Davies who had a burglar try to break into his home during lockdown. Also, footballer Dele Alli was robbed at knifepoint at his home with watches and jewellery worth thousands of pounds stolen.  

However, what you decide to post on social media can give burglars a lot of the information they need to plan a burglary on your home from details of the possessions you own (did you post pictures or updates about your new expensive watch?) to where you live (geo tags and pictures of your property) as well as the times you’re in and away from home.

Do you “check in” to places such as airport lounges and train stations? This gives a burglar the go ahead that your home will be empty for a prolonged period giving plenty of time to gain entry to your property and steal all of those expensive items you’ve been showing off online.

Tips on how to prevent yourself from falling victim to these criminals:

1. Don’t share your personal details such as your address.

This might seem obvious but even just posting a photo of the outside of your home with your house number showing can alert potential thieves to your location.

2. Don’t “check in” to locations on social media.

This is a clear indication that you are not at home and can even indicate how long potential thieves will have to break into your property.

3. Don’t post updates while you’re out of the country.

It can be tempting to post pictures of the view from your hotel apartment on holiday or post a status telling your friends that you’ll see them in 2 weeks, but this is another way of telling thieves that your home and valuables may be unprotected.

4. Reassess your privacy settings.

While you may think that you are just sharing updates with your close friends and family, your page privacy settings may mean that your posts are public for all to see. For example, a large portion of Facebook’s default privacy settings are set to public viewing so make sure you check your settings before posting.

Reports in the UK state 80% of robbers check Twitter, Facebook, Google Street View and this has led to a number of police forces speaking out in the past about thinking twice before posting updates on social media. Don’t let it be your home that is burgled next.

Remember during this lockdown when people lose their pay checks, they may be forced to turn to crime.

Take care and keep safe.

#StayAlert

#StayHomeSaveLives