We’ve all seen it – that classic Facebook status, checking in to the airport captioned ‘See you in 2 weeks – Tenerife here we come!’

Well, how would you feel if you found out that very status was the reason for a break-in at your home? Showing off your latest holiday on social media is tempting in today’s day and age, but is it worth putting your home’s security at risk?

As more and more of us run our lives through social media, it can be easy to forget the real-life risks that sharing too much can create. Most social media apps allow you to share your location at any time, automatically telling everyone that you’re not at home – not the type of information you want falling into the wrong hands. You might think sharing your holiday status’, tweets and pictures is a great way to let your friends and family know you’re going on holiday. In reality though, you’re also letting people know that your home is empty and therefore, an easy target.

And don’t forget about posting about your expensive purchases! You’re also letting your followers know about all the nice kit that’s just sitting in your house while you’re out of the country.

Could you invalidate your insurance policy?

Unfortunately, you are at risk from having your insurance claims rejected if you have announced your plans on Facebook. The Financial Obudsman is concerned that many policyholders do not realise that insurers might check their social media accounts. It warns that anyone who does not keep their details private is particularly at risk of having their claims denied.

The reason for this is an insurer might consider they have not done enough to protect themselves against theft by making such information public.

What can you do to stop it?

The first likely answer to that is to simply stop doing it! With social media now being a part of most of our lives though, this is easier said than done. So, if you do insist on posting these updates – here’s our advice:

1. Do not automatically share location information on social media platforms
2. Never share your address
3. Consider changing your privacy settings to share information ‘with friends’ (and not friends of friends).
4. Share holiday photos after the holiday.

And to secure your home?

1. Lights on timers – lights that turn on and off automatically at certain times to give the illusion that there is someone present in the house.
2. Have a neighbour collect your mail and draw your curtains as nothing gives up the game that nobody is home like a huge pile of unread mail.
3. Don’t leave notes for delivery men etc informing them you are away.
4. Improve the security of doors by including deadbolt locks.
5. Invest in a visible security system as this is one of the biggest deterrents.