Shafira Huang has become a popular influencer. Her home was robbed in December (Photo by Kirstin … [+]
In the past year, skilled thieves – believed to be part of a South American organized crime gang – have famously targeted the homes of professional athletes. However, criminals have also targeted online influencers, tracking many of the products or merchandise that were featured in social media posts.
In December, the London home of Shafira Huang, an art collector and cultural ambassador for Halcyon Gallery, was burglarized. The thieves reportedly made off with 10.4 million pounds ($12.7 million) in jewelry and other goods. She is not the only one being targeted as she posted a lot of information online.
Many Los Angeles influencers were also targets of burglaries, with criminals striking while social media stars were traveling.
Digital goals
Criminals are basically finding their targets, even “stumbling” on victims’ residents by looking at posts made on social networks. While the targets have mostly been high-profile influencers and internet celebrities, experts warn that anyone can become a victim by “sharing” on social media platforms.
“Sharing personal information online, particularly details about travel plans, location or valuables, can really increase security risks for all types of users, not just high-profile individuals,” Professor Justin explained. Miller, associate professor of practice in the School of Cyber Studies at the University of Tulsa.
Although social media encourages the sharing of experiences, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential consequences, Miller suggested.
“Over-sharing can provide malicious actors with valuable information to exploit, making individuals more susceptible to targeted attacks such as theft or even physical harm,” he added. “It’s essential to practice responsible online behavior by limiting the disclosure of sensitive information, being careful about who can access your posts, and regularly reviewing your privacy settings. Remember, a healthy balance between sharing experiences and Protecting personal information is key to staying safe online.”
Social Engineering in reverse
Cybercriminals often use so-called “social engineering” techniques to gather crucial information that can be used to hack a network or gain access to data. This may include getting individuals to click on a link that installs malware or otherwise offers an opening.
In the case of social media, the victims are essentially handing over the proverbial keys to the thieves.
“These are victims of classic social engineering — a significant and least understood cybersecurity risk,” suggested Lawrence Pingree, vice president at cybersecurity researcher Dispersive and an expert on hidden networks.
“The defender has to think through or model all possible scenarios to avoid becoming a victim, whereas a threat actor has asymmetry on their side — they only have to find one vulnerability,” Pingree warned.
This threat is not limited to influencers. Anyone who shares a lot online can provide those crucial details about cybercriminals, but also the type of gangs involved in these physical thefts.
“If you’re a person who could be targeted, keep in mind that whatever you post is public information — so it could easily be used against you by a threat actor,” Pingree said. “This falls under the category of good social hygiene and privacy care, which everyone should practice – and especially those with a higher profile.”
Inviting problems through a post
To date, criminals have mostly engaged in robberies, where thieves have sought to stalk victims’ homes while the influencer is traveling. However, another popular influencer — known by the online moniker Baby Alien — was robbed and assaulted in the Bay Area last fall while he was promoting a local smoke shop.
It can only be a matter of time before such crimes can escalate. That’s why keeping a lower profile on social media might not be such a bad idea. Not everyone will be your friend.
“Cybersecurity isn’t just about protecting devices or networks — it’s also about protecting information that can lead to real-world risks,” said Emily Phelps, director at cybersecurity provider Cyware. “Sharing real-time travel updates or personal details on social media can inadvertently expose vulnerabilities, similar to how organizations face risks when sensitive operational details become visible. Whether posting as an individual or about your businesses, prompting a culture of security awareness, cooperation and prudence is the first step in mitigating threats.”
In other words, maybe it’s time to be a little more paranoid when using social media — because someone might be out to get you.
