Police warning: how social media could ruin your holiday
Heading off on a road trip this summer? Be careful what you tweet about…
Police are warning all holidaymakers that social media posts are inadvertently alerting thieves to empty houses, making them prime targets for burglary.
Worst of all – by posting such information yourself, you may even be invalidating the terms of your home insurance policy.
North Wales Police issued its own tweet with the hashtag #dontmakeiteasy, reminding those heading away this summer to save sharing their snaps until they’re safely home.
The force points out that some insurance providers will invalidate home insurance claims made in light of a burglary which followed such a social post – claiming it proves homeowners failed to take “reasonable care” to protect their property.
While every provider will have its own stance on what constitutes reasonable or reckless behaviour when it comes to social media updates, it’s always best to check your policy documents to make sure where you stand.
As well as sharing photos of idyllic road trips, beach days and famous landmarks, holiday ‘countdowns’ are another form of post which police say should be treated with extreme caution – as they alert would-be thieves to the exact date you’ll be leaving your home unattended.
Admiral figures suggest as many as 36% of social media users have given away clear clues as to their future holidays online, while 40% of Facebook users tag or check in at their location.
As many as half of all burglaries take place when the homeowner is not at the property.
Home is where you should feel safe and secure – and here at the RAC we want to keep it that way. RAC Home Insurance provides peace of mind by protecting your home against damage.
Copyright Press Association 2019. Motoring News articles do not reflect the RAC's views unless clearly stated.
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