How to Keep Your House Safe While You're Away - Travel - FOXNews.com

How to Keep Your House Safe While You're Away - Travel - FOXNews.com: "Don’t put out a virtual welcome mat.

We all like bragging about our trips, but refrain from discussing details on social networking sites before you go. “Every day in my networks, someone indicates that they’re looking forward to their trip. They’re even kind enough to indicate their dates of travel and mention that the entire family is going. Why not just post a sign up in the local jail letting the criminals know you’re going on vacation?” says private investigator Jeff Stein.

Too much information, specifically your home address, may be stored in your car’s GPS device. “If a thief were to steal your car, all he needs to do is turn on your GPS and push ‘Home,’” Stein says. “Since your car was parked at the airport or long term parking somewhere, he knows you’re not home,” he says. Further, the thief has the added luxury of opening your garage door with the remote built into your car, pulling into the garage, and loading up your own car with your stuff."