People are putting themselves at risk of theft and burglary by announcing details of their whereabouts on social media - particularly when going away on holiday warn Gwent police.

Posting pictures of the family smiling at the airport or soaking up the sun far from home can be an open invitation for thieves who may discover your address as a ‘friend of a friend.’

‘Sites like Facebook and Twitter have become the modern-day equivalent of the ‘Wish you were here’ postcard but whereas you had some control over who saw your card the news of your absence can travel far and wide online in minutes and may end up in the hands of someone who will give you a very unhappy homecoming’, warned a police spokesman.

The advice joins the regular summer warnings about the need for vigilance in the hot spells, such as ensuring windows and doors are locked when you leave the house or go to bed.

Don’t leave your car keys in an easy to reach place (for example near to doors and windows) and take them upstairs with you when you got to bed.

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DCI Nick Wilkie said ‘Burglars are opportunists and many just look for an easy target. By taking a few, simple precautions, residents can reduce the likelihood of becoming a victim of burglary.

For more information and top tips for keeping yourself and your home safe, visit the Gwent Police website: www.gwent.police.uk