Burglars are exploiting social media to target homes!
In today’s always-connected world, social media has become second nature, with over 57.6 million users in the UK in 2025*. We post updates, share photos, tag locations, and document our daily lives. While these habits help us stay connected, they can also carry hidden risks, particularly when it comes to home security and insurance.
Sharing photos of a sunny day out, a night on the town, or your latest purchase may seem harmless, but it can inadvertently offer a digital roadmap for criminals. Posts that include detailed location tags, show expensive items, or suggest your home is unoccupied can increase the likelihood of you becoming a target for theft.
It has been widely reported on the web and media that 78% of burglars are using social media as a tool to target their victims.
Photos that include your house number, street name, or car registration (even in the background), can help criminals pinpoint your home with alarming ease.
Posting pictures of valuables such as jewellery, watches, cars or electronics can also put you at risk. In many cases, you may unknowingly share metadata embedded in images, which can include GPS coordinates. If your privacy settings are not strict, this data is readily accessible to anyone online.
Insurance providers may also take your digital footprint into account. If a claim is made after a break-in, and it’s discovered that your social media posts clearly indicated your absence or advertised high-value possessions, your claim could be challenged or reduced on the grounds of negligence.
To stay safe:
- Avoid posting in real time or while away. Share your travel photos once you are home.
- Turn off geotagging and location services on apps and devices.
- Check privacy settings and limit who can see your posts, by setting to ‘private’.
- Be mindful of visible personal details, such as your address or car registration.
- Make sure valuables are out of camera shot, before taking your photo.
In a world where digital behaviour has real-world consequences, responsible social sharing isn’t just smart, it’s essential. Protecting your privacy online not only safeguards your home but also ensures your insurance remains dependable when you need it most.
Chris Tully
Private Clients Director
