Experts warn that everyday actions, such as posting holiday photos or sharing your travel dates on social media, can jeopardise your safety both at home and while you’re away.
During 2024, England & Wales police forces received 234,200 crime reports about burglary giving an overall crime rate of 4.06 per 1,000 people in 2024.
The most dangerous areas for burglary are Middlesbrough, Hackney, and Leeds, with crime rates of 9.45, 8.74, and 8.63 per 1,000 daytime population, respectively, according to CrimeRate.
While it’s tempting to show off a fancy hotel room or celebrate setting your out-of-office reply, these common mistakes could leave both you and your home vulnerable. South Africa-based company pcinternational’s tech expert Jonathan Perumal has identified a serious threat.
In an age where technology connects us instantly and conveniently, it’s essential to remember that it also brings new security challenges. While social media platforms and smart devices enhance our lives, they can also inadvertently compromise our safety if not used wisely.
Jonathan Perumal explains, “From sharing personal details online to leaving digital footprints that hackers might exploit, technology requires careful management to safeguard against potential threats.
“Sharing holiday snaps online is like rolling out the welcome mat for burglars—you’re broadcasting that your home is empty. Beyond alerting potential thieves, this risky habit could even invalidate your home insurance, leaving you exposed.
“Many people don’t realise that some insurance policies have clauses that could void your cover if you’re deemed reckless with your home’s security—posting pictures on social media could be used against you.
“Broadcasting your holiday dates on social media can also turn your vacation into a security risk. By publicly announcing when you’ll be away, not only does this increase the likelihood of theft, but again it could also lead to your home insurance being invalidated if you are deemed negligent.
“In addition to the risk of physical theft, you’re also putting your personal information at risk, making it easier for fraudsters to exploit your identity. Keeping your travel plans under wraps is a simple way to safeguard both your home and your privacy.
“In conclusion, it’s crucial to be mindful of how your activity on social media can impact your security. While sharing holiday photos and travel dates might seem harmless, these everyday actions can expose you to potential risks.
“By taking a more cautious approach to what you post on social media, you can better protect your home, your personal information, and your overall safety.”
