Niraj Mamtora, Director and Home Insurance Expert at Forum Insurance, explains:
“Burglars aren’t just casing streets anymore – they’re scrolling through Instagram stories and Facebook timelines. With this in mind, insurers expect policyholders to take reasonable care to protect their property, and that now includes being cautious about what you share online. For example, posting ‘Off to Greece for two weeks!’ could be considered negligence under policy terms, similar to leaving doors unlocked.
“Another claim was rejected after a homeowner posted a photo of their keys online. Someone saved the image and used it to make a copy of the key. Then, while the homeowners were away on holiday, the thief used the copy to break in and rob them. Discreet CCTV inside the house later captured the intruders discussing how they got in, confirming the method.
“Even posts in private groups aren’t foolproof – screenshots can circulate, and insurers may argue you didn’t sufficiently limit audience access.
“Many insurers include clauses requiring policyholders to ‘take care to prevent loss.’ If you publicly broadcast your holiday plans, insurers could argue you breached this duty. Always assume anything shared online, even privately, could be seen by criminals.”
How Burglars Use Social Media Posts to Target Empty Homes
Niraj has also shared how burglars may use social media to work out when you’re away from home for an extended period.
He said, “Burglars are far more digitally savvy than most people realise,” explains Niraj. “They often monitor public profiles or send fake friend requests to gain access to private posts. Even something as simple as tagging yourself at the airport or sharing a boarding pass photo can give criminals a clear window of opportunity.
“Posting real-time updates from your holiday accommodation or tagging the location in stories can further confirm that your home is empty. We’re also seeing more cases where seemingly harmless posts, like asking for a dog sitter or counting down the days to your trip, are used by burglars to plan their break-ins. In many cases, they’ll cross-reference this information with Google Maps to confirm addresses.
“All of this not only puts your property at risk but could also be seen by insurers as failing to take reasonable care, potentially voiding any claim.”
7 Simple Hacks for Safeguarding Your Home Insurance Whilst Holidaying
Niraj has also shared his top tips for protecting your home from burglary whilst you’re away on holiday:
- Review your home insurance policy
Check for clauses like “unforced entry” or “reasonable care” that might be affected by social media posts. If unsure, call your provider to clarify what constitutes negligence.
- Google your address
Search your home’s location to identify publicly available photos (e.g., Zoopla listings, Street View). Request removal if they reveal security weak points
- Post only after returning
Share holiday photos after you’re home, adding captions like “Back safe!” to deter burglars who monitor timelines.
- Reject unknown friend requests
Criminals often pose as acquaintances to monitor your posts. Only accept requests from verified profiles of people that you know and trust.
- Tighten your privacy settings
Set profiles to private and restrict posts to close friends/family. Audit friend lists monthly to remove unknown contacts.
- Invest in your home security
Install BS3621-approved locks, smart cameras, and motion-activated lights to meet insurer requirements. You could also program smart plugs to turn your lights on and off at varied times to mimic activity.
- Ask a trusted neighbour to handle your mail
Ask a trusted neighbour, friend or family member to remove piled-up mail and park occasionally in your driveway to immitate occupancy.
