When it comes to your home, your belongings and your family, security is a top priority. There are many measures you can take to ensure their safety, from securing the entrance points of your home, to using timed lights and video camera surveillance. You can have the best home security system in the world, but can still become a victim because of one risk that is often overlooked; Social media. It’s become a popular form of communication for many people in the United States (and around the world). Keep all of these tips in mind when you’re posting.
Don’t Post Your Vacation Itinerary on Social Media
If you are planning on going away, you do not need to notify the whole world about your plans. When you post such important details online, you are providing easy access to criminals. They have become technologically savvy, watching Internet activity, picking out properties that they know will be vacant. If you insist on making posts about your vacation, do so after the fact when you have returned home. That’s the perfect time to tell everyone all the exciting details of your trip. Make sure you do tell neighbors, family and your security company when you’re going away. Everyone can keep an eye on your property and be on the lookout for any unusual activity. Even better, a monitored alarm system with your home security provider allows for a professional to keep an eye on your property while you’re away.
Don’t Share Information About Appointments
Whether you are going to be in the hospital, have an appointment at the spa, or plan on taking your dog to the vet, this is too much information to post on social media sites. You will only make your home a target, letting criminals know when your home is vacant and for how long. Posts about vet visits are especially telling since they reveal that your furry friend isn’t protecting your home for that period of time.
Educate Teens About the Pitfalls of Social Media
Sit down and talk with your teens about their use of social media as well. You want to ensure they are protected and don’t compromise their existing home security in Idaho. They should never post information that makes it obvious they are home alone. Child predators and thieves are more likely to take advantage of children and teens if they know the adults are away. It’s possible to stay up to date on social media platforms without giving away personal information. Remind them of the old fashioned way of communicating: by phone or face-to-face.
Keeping your home safe doesn’t have to be rocket science. The best home security system involves teamwork and common sense. If you have the right equipment, a good company that provides maintenance and monitoring services, and take the proper precautions concerning social media, you’ll have the best chance of safety and security. The criminals may be getting smarter, but you can always stay one step ahead of the game with your home security in Boise.