Don’t advertise that you’re not at home

Don’t advertise that you’re not at home

Dear Resident,

Don’t advertise that you’re not at home.

We all love sharing holiday photos, but posting in real-time could alert criminals that your home is empty. It also puts you at greater risk of identity theft if your personal details or travel plans are shared publicly.

Police advise against advertising that you are going away on holiday because it alerts criminals that your home is empty.

Top tip: Save the snaps for after your trip and keep location tags off your posts.

Post the memories. Not the plans.

Think ahead this summer. Keep it secure.

Key safety steps include avoiding live social media posts, turning off location tags, and waiting until you return home to share photos.

Social Media Guidance

Post after your trip: Save holiday snaps and stories until you are safely back home.

Avoid real-time check-ins: Do not share airport updates, countdowns, or live location tags.

Check privacy settings: Ensure your profiles are set to private and restricted to people you actually know, rather than public viewing.

Home Security Tips

Use light timers: Set indoor lights and radios on automatic timers to give the impression someone is home.

Enlist a neighbour: Ask a trusted neighbour or friend to collect mail, open/close curtains, and keep an eye on the property.

Secure entry points: Lock all doors and windows, and store garden tools, ladders, or bins securely so they cannot be used to climb up.

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Message Sent By
Matt Bennett
(Hertfordshire Constabulary, PCSO, St Albans - Central, North & West)