Thanksgiving Trips and Social Media

We’ve seen the posts of the selfie in the car on the way to NY to see your parents. But did you know 78% of thieves use trips and social media?

It’s bad enough that we STILL have to deal with covid, why add a ransacked home to the list? 

thanksgiving trips and social media

Thanksgiving Trips and Social Media

Don’t believe that social media and home break-ins are related?
Google “home break-ins from Facebook posts” and you’ll get over 13 million search results. TV reports, newspaper reports, personal blogs…it’s a long list.
Because it happens all too frequently.

Thanksgiving Trips and Social Media

A recent segment on CNN discusses the risks that you may be taking while updating your Facebook status. You don’t know who is looking at your private information because it’s truly not private – it’s public. They told a story about a woman who found this out the hard way after she posted a simple status message on Facebook that she was going to see a band with her fiancé. It only took the burglars calling the venue to find out what time the show was to let them know when they could break into her home. The burglars showed up 35 minutes after she left for the concert.
thanksgiving trips ans social mediaYou’ve seen the post on Facebook: A friend at the airport, pictures of the departure board. She posts a selfie, all excited for a family reunion over the holidays with the text, “Heading off for Thanksgiving! See you next week!”
What’s wrong with that picture?
Did she really want anyone to know her house would be empty for the next 5 days?
There’s nothing wrong with keeping in touch with your family and friends on social media. But if you’re not careful, the wrong people could be looking at your check-ins, status updates, tweets and other social media posts.
Those “wrong people” would be the burglars, thieves, stalkers and other criminals. According to one recent survey, more than 75 percent of convicted burglars admitted that they use social media posts combined with Google street view to target victims.

Thanksgiving Trips and Social Media

Don’t be a victim! – 5 Ways to be more careful

Limit Revealing Posts

facebookWe get it. You are having a blast and you want the world to know it, but you will settle for your friends and family and post away on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and more…. but here at ESS Global, we strongly suggest against sharing your activity outside your home in real time.
Remember the days when we used cameras, then came home and waited days for the pictures to be developed at the drugstore? It’s a bit easier now, but wait until you are home to share your event or vacation stories on social media.
Or at least get a house sitter.

Location Sharing Service and Applications

girl-926622_1280If you use mobile apps that include location sharing features, such as Facebook, get to know the privacy features and use them. Make sure your phone isn’t syncing up with other social networks that aren’t as private. If they do, you might be broadcasting your location to people you don’t even know.
One example of this is when you post a picture to Instagram, your location data is shared with Facebook. Get the picture?
To be even safer, turn off your GPS when you don’t need it. And that includes inside your home.

Pictures

Taking a picture of the nice new car you bought? With your home sitting right behind it? Great. Now take a pic of the house clearly. Post it on Facebook…then hover over it and right click and “search google for this image”.
And you will never ever post a picture of your house again. It’s that easy. That’s why thieves love street view.
And again…when you are away from home, try to resist the urge to post that picture of the Grand Canyon. Or the Thanksgiving turkey at your mom’s house.

Which Leads us to Reverse Image Search

google-logo-newSo perhaps you have decided a blog is a better way to go. You can use a different name and have some anonymity. But maybe you post the same image in a different post on Twitter….or Facebook.
Now…if I fall across your blog aptly named Superstar, and right click that image to do a “Search Google for this image”, BOOM! I see Google found that very same image on your Facebook page. Now I know your username!
From there they have your real name or can easily piece together your real name and then all they have to do is pop it into a people-search directory to come up with your home address.
Done.

A Friend of a Friend of a….

trips and social mediaEven if your profiles are private, you still need to be careful about what you post. Not every person on your friends list is someone you can necessarily trust, especially if you “friend” people who you don’t know in real life.
Also, depending on your settings, friends of friends of friends might be able to see your post when they have liked or commented on it.
So friend A likes or comments on your post. Now, A’s friends B – Z see that in their feed…and from there it can multiply. So your post can be seen by virtually everyone and anyone.
So even if your settings are private, watch what you post.
According to the Pew Research Center, 92% of those surveyed post their full, real name on social media. Eighty-two percent post their birthday and 71% post the name of the city they live in. Individually, these pieces of information aren’t terribly harmful. However, when a thief knows your name, birthday and city of residence it’s not that hard at all to get your address.
We understand that most people want to use their full name on their social media profiles, even though that’s not the absolute safest course of action.
But at the very least you shouldn’t post your birthday or your location.

Bonus – Hashtags

Thieves love hashtags. Like #VacationTime or #Vacation. They target these hashtags to discover when people are away from home.

You wouldn’t put a sign out in front of your home saying “Away For a Week”, why would you do that digitally?

There’s no need to totally abandon your social media profiles. Just be careful and be aware of what you’re posting. Done correctly, your social media profiles can send a clear message:
#NoToThieves.

Have a Happy and SAFE Thanksgiving!

Upcoming Events at ESS Global

Upcoming Events at ESS – Class D License Training August 27-30, Mega Executive Protection Training Sept 3-30, G License Training Sept 15-17

Upcoming Events at ESS Global Corp in Tampa

Florida Class D License Training in Tampa August 27-30


Looking for the very best Florida Class D License training in Tampa and the Clearwater area? ESS Global Corp is the only training facility in Florida to be licensed and approved by the Department of Education. Our D.O.E. Approved Florida D License Training in Tampa is now only $150.
That’s 4 days of training for a quick start in the fast growing security industry.

As the leading provider of Security Training in Florida, ESS Global Corp is the the only Security School in the State of Florida whose courses and trainers are monitored and approved by the D.O.E.

The only one.

Additionally, our instructors bring “real world” information to you in an engaging, informative manner.

SIGN UP TODAY for the Security Guard D License Class in Tampa at ESS Global.

28-Day Mega Executive Protection Training – The All-In-One

GI Bill Approved Executive Protection Training
The ESS Global 28-Day Executive Protection “Mega” Course is a series of comprehensive protection training modules developed by ESS Global and approved by the D.O.E. This month-long executive protection training is for civilians, law enforcement and military personnel who wish to pursue a career in corporate security or protective services domestically or abroad.

  • Approved by the VA to Accept GI Bill Benefits
  • Approved for Vocational Rehab
  • Certified by the D.O.E.
  • Real World Security Experience in Over 60 Countries

The ESS Global “Mega” Executive Protection Training includes;

  • Executive Protection Certification
  • Advanced Executive Protection Certification
  • Threat Assessment & Security Advance Tactics Certification
  • GI Bill Approved Close Protection Training - D.O.E. ApprovedMotorcade Tactics Certification
  • Defensive Tactics Certification
  • CPR/AED Certification
  • Florida Concealed Weapons Certification (May be used to obtain CWP license)
  • NRA Basic Pistols Course Certification
  • Collapsible Baton ASP Certification
  • OC Spray Certification GI Bill Approved Close Protection Training - ASP Certifications
  • ASP Handcuffing Certification
  • ASP Flashlight Training Certification
  • Conductive Energy Weapon Certification (Phazzer) 
  • D License Certification (Unarmed Security Officer)
  • G License Certification (Armed Security Officer)

In this month long bodyguard course, you will receive over 300+ hours of elite executive protection instruction and training from top industry professionals that we use as our instructors.  You will learn from the best!

Register for the May 28-Day Course

Class G Security License in Tampa September 15-17


To work armed security in Florida, you are required to complete the Florida Statewide Firearms License Course. The ESS Global Corporation, Department of Education approved Florida G License Classes in Tampa is the best way to acquire the required firearms training course you must complete to work as an armed security guard.
As stated in the Florida Private Investigator Handbook, an applicant for a Florida Class “G” Statewide Firearm license must have a minimum of twenty-eight (28) hours of range and classroom training within the past (12) months.  This training must be taught and administered by a Class “K” Firearms Instructor.
In addition to lesson instruction and live fire training, you will be walked through the State application step-by-step to ensure that the Class “G” license application is complete and filled out properly.
Students that pass the final exam and range qualification will be given a proof of completion certificate to provide to the State when they apply for the Class “G” license.
Graduates that are issued a Florida Class “G” license must return once per year to complete annual re-qualification to retain their license. ESS has you covered there as well.

Register For Florida G License Training September 15-17

See All Upcoming Events at ESS Global Corp

logo“As the only training facility in Florida to be licensed by the US Department of Education, ESS Global Corporation provides education, training and consulting for commercial endeavors, government entities and the general public solely designed to enhance the safety and security of our communities. Our partnerships promote an unrelenting devotion to high standards of duty and courage.  ESS Global Corporation accomplishes this mission through an unwavering dedication to deliver comprehensive security services to the communities we value and serve.”

727-940-7926

info@essglobalcorp.com

Situational Awareness Training in Tampa January 27 at ESS Global

Situational Awareness Training in Tampa January 27 at ESS Global – This is a 4- hour Situational Awareness and Psychological Profiling Course.

Situational Awareness Training in Tampa January 27 at ESS Global

Situational awareness training in Tampa January
Situational Awareness / Psychological Profiling in Tampa January 27 at ESS Global – a 4-hour class that just may save your life or save another.
In light of the recent attacks in Nevada, Texas, France, UK, Orlando, NYC  and worldwide, the recurring episodes of church shootings and workplace/venue/cinema violence in the US, we’ve come to the realization that in a sense, we are all responsible for our own safety.

Situational Awareness

Situational Awareness is “paying attention” to what is going on around you.  It’s more than that, but the basic definition is the ability to scan the environment and sense danger, while maintaining the ability to conduct normal activities. In other words, to pay attention to your surroundings while not appearing to be paying attention.
You assess the current situation and people around you by gathering information, processing that information, and then figuring out if action is required. Situational awareness can help you avoid a confrontation, fight or other harmful situation. Not only can situational awareness save your own life, but also other innocent lives around you. The military, the government, law enforcement agencies and self-defense experts all train, use, and practice situational awareness.

Psychological Profiling

Psychological profiling, also known as behavioral, criminal personality, and criminal profiling, is a method used to both recognize and develop profiles for murders, rapists, and other violent criminals. This tool, used by law enforcement agencies, helps to identify likely suspects by analyzing patterns that may predict future offenses and/or victims (predictive offender profiling).

Situational Awareness / Psychological Profiling in Tampa January 27 at ESS

Situational Awareness training is as much a skill as it is a mindset. In the ESS Global Situational Awareness training class, you will learn the skills utilized by distinguished branches of the military, such as the Coast Guard and Secret Service.
This course is valuable training for bodyguards, security guards, retail and service workers and anyone that is generally out in public situations.

Situational Awareness Training in Tampa January 27 at ESS Global = 4 Hours That May Save a Life.

Sign Up Today!

727-940-7926

info@essglobalcorp.com

Holiday Safety Tips

The Thanksgiving Turkey has been picked to the bone, and the holiday shopping season has officially begun. 31 Holiday Safety Tips for 2017.
We know the holiday season is always a special time of year. It is also a time when busy people become careless and vulnerable to theft and other holiday crime. Thieves are opportunistic and even worse, this is the time of year when professional criminals work 24 hours a day.
Since there are 31 days in December, here are 31 holiday safety tips from ESS Global Corp.

Holiday Safety Tips 2017

Holiday Safety Tips

Children

  • Holiday Safety Tips - ChildrenChildren are a distraction in the car and at the mall and even more so during the holidays. They are also at a higher risk of being abducted. Child trafficking is rampant in the US.
  • If at all possible, leave small children at home with a trusted babysitter.
  • Teach your child to go to a store clerk or mall guard and ask for help in case your child is separated from you.
  • Never allow small children to make unaccompanied trips to the restroom.
  • Children of any age, should not be allowed to go to the car alone, especially at night.
  • Teach children their full name, address and telephone number to give to police officers or mall security guards.

ATM Use

  • Holiday Safety Tips - ATMUse ATM’s that are inside a building or a bank.
  • Shield your PIN when someone is behind you.
  • Only take out exactly what you need. This is not the time of year to walk around with a fistful of cash.
  • Pocket the receipt.

Shopping Malls, Strip Plazas and Box Stores

  • Shop during daylight hours whenever possible. If you must shop at night, go with friends or family. There is safety in numbers.
  • Do not carry a purse or wallet, if possible. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Keep cash in your front pocket.
  • This is the time of year to stay very alert to your surroundings.Shopping crowd
  • Keep a record of all of your credit card numbers in a safe place at home and notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused (check your January statement with a fine toothed comb).
  • Be extra careful if you do carry a wallet or purse. They are the prime targets of criminals in Christmas shopping crowds and shopping areas. Purse snatchers love crowds, and mobs of shoppers make their “job” easier than at any other time of year.
  • Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason. At this time of year, con-artists try various methods of distracting you with the intention of taking your money or belongings. You know the sort of thing: someone tells you a story of despair and asks for your money to help put things right. All too often these are con artist tricks — and they succeed because they sound like they’re real.

Driving and Parking

  • Holiday Safety Tips - ParkingAvoid driving alone especially at night.
  • Keep all car doors locked and windows closed.
  • If you must shop at night, park in a well-lit area. Again, try to go with friends/family.
  • Avoid parking next to vans or any car, truck with tinted/blacked out windows.
  • Park as close as you can to your destination and take notice of where you parked. This is not the time of year to be walking around a parking lot at night with a purse and presents, searching for your car.
  • Do not leave packages or valuables on the seat of your car. This is catnip for thieves. If you must leave anything in the car, lock it in the trunk or hide it out of sight.
  • Be sure to locate your keys before leaving the mall or store, do not fumble around for them standing beside your car.
  • When approaching your vehicle, be very aware of your surroundings.
  • Do not approach your car alone if there are suspicious people in the area. Ask a mall guard or store security for a quick escort to your vehicle.

Holiday Parties, Family Get-Togethers

  • Holiday Safety Tips- PartiesWhen leaving your home for an extended time, have a neighbor or family member watch your house and/or pick up your newspapers and mail.
  • Indoor and outdoor lights should be on automatic timers.
  • Leave a radio and some lights on so the house looks and sounds occupied while you are away.
  • Be cautious of posting holiday plans on Social Media.
  • Never drink and drive.
  • Be aware of your surroundings when you leave as well as when you get home.

ESSLonger nights and shorter days make for extended periods of low light. Anyone, especially a woman, walking through a dark parking garage or mall lot, both arms occupied with shopping bags, makes for a tempting target. Don’t be that target. Stay aware of your surroundings and may you and your family have a Joyous Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Questions?

Group Training?

727-940-7926

info@essglobalcorp.com
 

Situational Awareness / Psychological Profiling in Tampa November 18

Situational Awareness / Psychological Profiling in Tampa November 18 at ESS Global – a 4-hour class that just may save your life or save another.

Situational Awareness / Psychological Profiling in Tampa November 18

Situational Awareness and Psychological Profiling in Tampa November 18
In light of the recent attacks in Nevada, Texas, France, UK, Orlando, NYC  and worldwide, the recurring episodes of church shootings and workplace/venue/cinema violence in the US, we’ve come to the realization that in a sense, we are all responsible for our own safety.
What exactly is “situational awareness”? It’s “paying attention” to what is going on around you.  It’s more than that, but the basic definition is the ability to scan the environment and sense danger, while maintaining the ability to conduct normal activities. In other words, to pay attention to your surroundings while not appearing to be paying attention.
You assess the current situation and people around you by gathering information, processing that information, and then figuring out if action is required. Situational awareness can help you avoid a confrontation, fight or other harmful situation. Not only can situational awareness save your own life, but also other innocent lives around you. The military, the government, law enforcement agencies and self-defense experts all train, use, and practice situational awareness.
Psychological profiling, also known as behavioral, criminal personality, and criminal profiling, is a method used to both recognize and develop profiles for murders, rapists, and other violent criminals. This tool, used by law enforcement agencies, helps to identify likely suspects by analyzing patterns that may predict future offenses and/or victims (predictive offender profiling).

Situational Awareness / Psychological Profiling in Tampa November 18 at ESS

Situational Awareness training is as much a skill as it is a mindset. In the ESS Global Situational Awareness training class, you will learn the skills utilized by distinguished branches of the military, such as the Coast Guard and Secret Service.

Sign Up Today!

727-940-7926

info@essglobalcorp.com