PNP to the public: Be careful on posting travel itinerary on social networking sites

MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) reminded the public on Tuesday to be careful on posting travel itineraries and photos on social media that may invite criminals to think that their houses are easier to rob.

Chief Supt. Generoso Cerbo, PNP spokesperson, said that to avoid tempting burglars or robbers, people going on Holy Week or summer vacation should not disclose their plans on Facebook and other social networking services.

Cerbo said they should balance on what they are uploading because criminals are also lurking in cyberspace, waiting for people to post details of their whereabouts on social media.

Many Filipinos are expected to flock to the provinces to spend the Holy Week with their families and even after Holy Week, many are expected to visit beaches and other tourist destinations as part of their vacation.

The PNP also issued a list of tips to people leaving their homes for their vacation.

These include:

* Leave doors and windows locked.

* Install a burglar alarm at home.

* Avoid leaving notes indicating no one is at home.

* If possible, leave radio or lights on to deter would-be burglars.

* Ask a trusted neighbor to watch over the house from time to time.

* Make sure there is no lighted candle left behind, or appliances left plugged.

The PNP also called on motorists to observe all necessary safety precautions before travelling and always remember the word BLOWBAG (Brakes, Lights, Oil, Water, Battery, Air, and Gasoline) before travelling.