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Scottish Police warn about too much information in motorcycle ads
December 4th, 2008
Too many
details and too much technology makes it too easy for
motorcycle thieves according to police in Scotland.
Following
investigations that thieves are using classified
advertisements to target motorcycles to steal, Tayside
Police are warning potential sellers of motorcycles and
scooters to be cautious about the amount of information they
give out on-line when advertising their bikes for sale.
"Unfortunately, some people put too much information on
their posting, including photos of the bike that also show
the shed or garage door behind and whether there is much in
the way of security, said Constable Colin Brough, Crime
Prevention Officer for Dundee, "‘Some of the postings quite
literally put out the welcome mat by including a mapping
system that provides directions virtually straight to the
door of the seller."
Even social networking sites can give essential clues needed
by motorcycle thieves who scour photographs to learn where
bikes are stored.
"I must
stress that there is absolutely nothing wrong with the sites
themselves, or with anyone using them - all include good
information on how to keep safe when using them," continues
Constable Brough, "But it is the amount of personal
information that individuals are giving out that can be used
by thieves and which is giving us real cause for concern."
Some tips
given by authorities when advertising a motorcycle advise
not giving out home telephone numbers, never use a mapping
system for directions to the sellers home and always monitor
newspapers as well as the internet for buying scams.
Basically, by reducing the amount of information made widely
and readily available, sellers can reduce the chances of
being a victim of crime. |
