Gardaí in Donegal are warning cyclists to be vigilant when using fitness apps as hi tech criminals have started to track people to steal their equipment.
Gardaí believe that tracker apps may be behind an increase in attempted bike thefts by organised criminals in parts of the country.
Some fitness apps allow users to upload the route that they regularly take whilst cycling, what type of bike/equipment they have and also allow them to upload photos.
Sgt Charlene Anderson said: “There are many types of fitness apps out there for use particularly by cyclists and one of the main ones is “Strava”.
“It is so important that if you are to use this app or other fitness apps that you use the privacy zones within the app.
“The worry is that apps such as these could be used by criminals to track who is using expensive equipment and what route they usually travel and how often.”
Gardaí are advising people who use such apps not to post too much detail particularly if your cycling gear is of a very high value.
“When using a fitness app, take the usual safety precautions as you would when using any social media platform,” Sgt Anderson said.
