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Criminals often use bikes and mopeds to snatch mobile phones, particularly at busy locations such as outside stations, shopping centers or concert venues. Often victims are approached from behind while talking or texting on phones. Criminals on mopeds or bicycles may mount the pavement to grab the phone or snatch it from the road. Sometimes when it’s a moped, a pillion passenger will snatch it. While most thefts happen between six and ten at night, criminals operate during the day too, so always be aware of what’s going on around you. Follow these simple steps to help protect your phone. Be aware of your surroundings.If you need to call or use your phone on the street, look out for anyone on a bike or a moped near you. Look up, look out.Make it quick so you don't become distracted.Don't text while you're walking – you won't notice what's going on around you.If that's not possible, stand away from the roadside, close to a building or wall, so no one can come up behind you.Going hands-free can prevent a thief from snatching your phone out of your handUse security features on your phone: Use the keypad lock so that thieves cannot immediately access your phone, or use the biometric authentication if your phone has it (finger print or facial recognition).Your phone may have other security features you can use – these could allow you to wipe data, lock your handset, or prevent a thief from restoring a phone to its factory settings from another internet device.Consider installing an anti-theft app. These can be an effective way of helping police trace your phone and identify the thief.Register your phone for free on a Secured by Design approved property registration database (www.securedbydesign.com). This helps police to identify you as the rightful owner and return your handset to you if lost or stolen.Remember, never confront a thief or risk your own safety for the sake of your mobile phone. |
