Social media is everywhere these days, from Facebook to LinkedIn, from Instagram to Snapchat, and more – social media is everywhere, and so is sharing on social media. However, sometimes people (accidentally) over-share on social media, which can have DRASTIC negative effects on one’s life, from personal security to increased insurance costs. Read on to learn five ways and reasons not to over-share on social media platforms.
(Accidental) Address Reveal
Revealing your address on social media is one of the worst mistakes anyone can make. Unfortunately, this happens more often than people think. This is very common when people buy a new home and post “just sold” pictures to share on social media. It’s OK to do that, but always keep your personal address private and hidden. You don’t want anyone stalking you or anyone to start targeting your home in any way (see more below).
Vacation Photos, While On Vacation
Imagine one day you’re on vacation, sharing pictures of your fabulous trip while adventuring or relaxing, and when you arrive back in town to find that your home has been broken into or vandalized. Think it can’t happen to you? Think again! If anyone knows you’re on vacation, and if they know your address, you’re telling everyone that your home is probably unoccupied. This makes your home an excellent target for anyone wanting to break in.
Social “Check-Ins”
Many people use the “check-in” features of social media because it is easy to post about a fabulous place you’re at. However, similar to sharing vacation pictures, this shows that your home is unoccupied. These social “check-ins” can be dangerous! Anyone who knows (or can find out) your address could decide to target your home.
Displaying Wealth
Unfortunately, many people like to use social media to showcase the best parts of their lives; their new homes, vacations, clothes/accessories, or car. As lovely as it may feel to share (or brag) about these significant aspects of your life, displaying your wealth in any way on social media is another way to attract those who may want to target you. A common form of this is when newly engaged couples share pictures of their engagement rings. The best route to take with social media is to stay humble. Do NOT display your wealth in any way.
Staying Smart (& Humble) On Social Media
As great as social media is at connecting people, it’s not good if you are oversharing. If one isn’t careful, they can attract the wrong people to target them.
Always keep your personal information private, including and especially your address. Avoid letting people know you’re away from home, whether by sharing vacation pics while on vacation or by sharing social “check-ins” of where you are. Lastly, don’t display your wealth in any way on social media because that can attract break-ins. This is especially the case if people can easily find your home address and easily see that you aren’t home.
If your home is broken into and any belongings are stolen or damaged, your home insurance costs can increase! It’s best to avoid the hassle altogether by simply staying humble on social media and being careful not to overshare.
Get More Tips, Contact Us Today
Source: Intact
