In today’s world, sharing updates on social media has become second nature. Whether it’s a family vacation, a weekend getaway, or even just a day trip, we often post photos and updates without a second thought. However, sharing that you’re away from home—on platforms like Facebook, Nextdoor, or Instagram—can unintentionally expose your home to risk. Broadcasting that your house is empty is an open invitation for potential burglars to take advantage of your absence.
Why Social Media Can Be a Security Risk
When you post that you’re out of town or even just away for the day, you’re letting a wide audience know that your home is unoccupied. While you may trust your friends and neighbors, social media is a public space, and your posts can easily be seen or shared by others beyond your immediate circle. Criminals often monitor social media for exactly this kind of information, looking for homes they know will be empty for an extended period.
Even posting on neighborhood-specific apps like Nextdoor to ask neighbors to keep an eye on your property while you’re away can be problematic. Although well-intentioned, this still signals to a much larger audience that your home is empty, increasing the risk of a break-in. It’s important to be mindful that not everyone on these platforms is someone you know personally.
Simple Steps to Stay Safe
The best way to protect your home while you're away is to avoid posting about your absence until you’re back. Share your vacation photos and updates after you’ve returned home, and in real-time, keep your activities private. By doing so, you keep the timing of your trip unclear, reducing the chances of your home being targeted.
If you do want to post while away, ensure your privacy settings are locked down, so only trusted friends can see your updates. Additionally, make sure your home is protected with smart security features, such as cameras and smart lighting, to deter any potential intruders who might be casing your home.
Our Take as Real Estate Agents
At Misraje Real Estate Partners, we’ve seen firsthand how simple precautions can go a long way in keeping a home safe while you’re away. Even though it might seem helpful to post on neighborhood apps like Nextdoor to ask neighbors to watch your home, it still exposes your absence to a wider audience than intended. Staying discreet and waiting to share updates once you’re back home is a much safer approach.
While posting photos may feel harmless, announcing your absence publicly leaves your home vulnerable. We advise our clients to stay cautious about sharing too much information on platforms like Facebook or Nextdoor, especially when they’re away from home. It’s all about being mindful of how you protect not just your belongings, but your peace of mind as well. We always recommend pairing these precautions with smart home security features for the best protection.
