We’re living in a strange world where our social media feeds are constantly baiting us to (humbly) brag about every aspect of our lives.
From our work to our social lives to our relationships, if we don’t post updates on what’s happening in our lives... well, did it really happen?
Yet in the wake of Kim Kardashian’s horrific holdup earlier this month, the world has collectively wondered the potential security threats an online presence might pose — especially when it comes to posting evidence of valuable belongings on social media. Kardashian was robbed of millions of dollars worth of jewellery, including a diamond ring she’d shared photos of on Snapchat and Instagram.
It’s hardly unusual to see friends and loved ones posting about their engagements on social media. But how safe is it to actually post a photo of your engagement ring?
According to Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company in the US, posting a photo of your engagement ring on the internet can potentially serve as an invitation to thieves.
“Thieves target homes for a variety of reasons. Some seek out unprotected, easy targets in lower-income neighbourhoods for a quick hit with little chance of an alarm system to deal with. Others, however, watch for signs of wealth – a bigger bang for their buck,” the company’s website explains.
“Combine the average value of engagement rings with the ease of selling them, especially online, and it’s not surprising that engagement rings are a target for thieves.”
Owning an expensive engagement ring might also represents far more to thieves than meets the eye.
“Not only is a diamond ring a tempting target all on its own, it could also indicate the owner has other valuable possessions, too.”
So is it best to avoid posting evidence of your engagement online for fear that thieves may pounce on any mention of a ring? Jewelers Mutual doesn’t think so.
“Pictures prominently featuring the ring itself are much more likely to catch the eye of a jewellery thief than a cute picture of the two of you.”
Top Comments
I don't think the average person is in any real danger of having their engagement ring being stolen if they post photos of it online. To go to the effort to steal and sell secondhand a ring that only retailed for a few grand in the first place isn't worth it.
That being said, I still find it really tacky when people post close-up shots of material goods like jewellery and designer shoes/bags on social media.
I got engaged just a week ago and posted a photo of my fiance and I, my hand on his chest. Most people asked for a close up of the ring. I don't think it's tacky, some people are just interested.