People are being advised not to post so-called "big ticket" gifts or Christmas holiday pictures on social media in case it entices burglars, an insurance company has said.
Peopl Insurance, which operates in partnership with credit unions across the country, has warned that homes are at increased risk of being targeted by thieves over the festive season.
This, it said, it is due to Christmas "being the time that people visit friends and family near and far", which can tip off burglars that a home in vacant.
Paul Walsh, spokesman for Peopl Insurance, warned that the holiday season is "a time that burglars are well aware of the rich pickings sitting under Christmas trees".
Mr Walsh said although social media is a regular aspect of people's lives, posting images on social media "can be an expensive mistake".
It "could alert burglars to the pricey new bike or games console in your home", he said.
The spokesperson said longer nights give would-be criminals "more time to break into homes" and the awareness that a home is vacant could also be tempting.
Mr Walsh said: "Opportunistic burglars are always on the lookout for easy targets and vacant homes, with easily accessible doors and windows, can be attractive.
"From new smartphones to new bikes to Playstations and so on, many Christmas gifts are worth hundreds of euro - and thieves are well aware of this.
"So don’t let a simple message on social media ultimately be the precursor of a break-in to your home."
