Homeowners warned never post pictures of your home showing 3 details or risk break-in
Whether posting images on social media or selling your home, experts are warning of the risks of what's shared
From boasting about a kitchen makeover to showing off a new garden office, millions of homeowners share property photos online without thinking twice. In the age of social media, it's common to see people sharing interior pics and house tour videos with their followers.
But according to one UK private investigator, these posts could be giving thieves everything they need to plan their next break-in. Because your seemingly innocent picture may not just be viewed by family and friends and could provide a 'blueprint' for thieves to target your house.
Paul Evans, a senior investigator at I-Spy Detectives, says criminals actively monitor social media and property listing sites to gather information on potential targets.
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Paul said: "People assume burglars are opportunistic, but the most successful ones do their homework.
"Every time you post a photo of your home, you might be revealing details that make their job easier."
He explained that while a kitchen selfie or house tour might seem harmless, photos often contain far more information than homeowners realise.
"We’ve seen cases where alarm systems, door locks, window types, and even the layout of rooms were clearly visible in the background.
“Criminals use these details to work out how to bypass security and what’s worth stealing."
In one case, I-Spy Detectives assisted a client who was robbed just weeks after listing their property for sale online.
Paul recalled: "The listing photos showed a glass side door, the alarm keypad, and an open-plan layout with expensive electronics on display. The thieves knew exactly where to go and what to take, it was like a blueprint."
According to Paul, burglars also scour estate agent sites, Airbnb listings, and renovation blogs to find homes worth targeting.
“High-end appliances, luxury furniture, and clear indicators of wealth make some properties stand out," he said. "Combine that with photos showing weak entry points, and it’s an open invitation."
Even seemingly minor details, like a lack of security cameras or a broken fence panel visible in the background, can make a home more attractive to thieves.
“Burglars don’t just break in randomly. They pick the easiest and most rewarding targets."
You don't have to stop sharing photos altogether, but you do need to be smart about it. Paul said there are three key things you should never post.
He said: "Never post clear shots of alarm systems, CCTV camera placements, or door and window locks.
"Avoid photos that show expensive tech or jewellery, and don’t post your house number or street name.”
And he stressed how important it is to avoid posting holiday snaps while you're away as this signals the property is lying empty.
Paul added: "If you want to share, wait until you’re back. You don’t need to tell burglars you’re thousands of miles from home."
For Paul, the biggest mistake is giving criminals a clear view of your home’s security setup.
"If your alarm keypad, camera angles, or even the make of your lock is visible online, you’re handing over a huge advantage,” he explained. "Cover or crop these details out, it takes seconds, but it can save you from a break-in."
If you fear your home is being targeted there are some things you can do.
Paul recommends taking any suspicious activity seriously, from unknown cars parked nearby to strangers taking photos of your property.
He said: "Report anything unusual to the police, and review your home security immediately. It’s far better to be overly cautious than to deal with the aftermath of a burglary."