Sharing life updates online feels great. Whether it is a photo of the new renovation, the kids’ first day of school, or just a relaxing Sunday on the patio, posting keeps us connected. However, a dark side to oversharing exists that most people don’t consider until it is too late.
Criminals and scammers use your “innocent” photos to build a profile of your life, schedule, and valuables. You might think you are just showing friends your new TV, but you are actually giving burglars a shopping list. Therefore, you must scrub these seven types of photos from your feed immediately.
The “First Day of School” Sign
Those cute chalkboards with your child’s age, teacher’s name, and school act as a goldmine for predators. You are publicly broadcasting where your child will be five days a week. Consequently, this creates a safety risk that simply isn’t worth the likes.
If you must post a photo, crop out the specific details. Keep the school name and teacher private. Your real friends already know where your kids go; strangers on the internet don’t need that information.
The High-Definition Key Shot
Did you just buy your dream home? Congratulations! But please, stop posting photos of your new keys. Technology has advanced so much that sophisticated thieves can actually 3D print a copy of a key just from a high-resolution photo.
It sounds like science fiction, but it is a real security vulnerability. Celebrate the house, but keep the keys in your pocket. A selfie in front of the door is safer than a close-up of the lock mechanisms.
Vacation Countdown Timers
Posting a photo of your boarding pass or a “7 days until Mexico!” countdown basically tells burglars exactly when your house will be empty. You are advertising a clear window of opportunity. Save the vacation photo dumps for when you return. It is better to share your memories safely than to come home to a ransacked house because you announced your departure.
Work-From-Home Desk Setups
We all take pride in our home offices but look closely at your screens. Are confidential emails visible? Are passwords on a sticky note? Furthermore, can people see your home’s layout through the doorway behind you?
High-resolution photos reveal more than you think. Burglars look at background details to figure out the layout and where expensive electronics are located. Therefore, blur the screens and check the background before you hit post.
Expensive New Purchases
Showing off that new 85-inch TV, gaming console, or designer bag alerts thieves that your home is a high-value target. Additionally, it tells them exactly what packaging to look for in your recycling bin. If you want to share your excitement, do it with close friends or in private groups. Broadcasting high-ticket items on public feeds attracts the wrong kind of attention.
Protect Your Sanctuary
Your home is your safe space. Thus, your digital footprint should protect that, not compromise it. A little mystery goes a long way in keeping your family safe. Audit your social media today and delete anything that gives away too much.
Be honest, how many of these photos are currently on your profile right now? Let me know in the comments!
What to Read Next…
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- 10 Home Security Flaws Burglars Pray You’ll Overlook
- Looking to Move in Atlanta? These 8 Zip Codes Have the Lowest Crime Rates
The post 7 “Innocent” Photos of Your Home You Must Delete from Social Media Now appeared first on Budget and the Bees.
