Mobile phone thefts are surging in the UK

A masked thief in a hoodie snatches a smartphone from an unsuspecting pedestrian in a busy urban area at night.Mobile phone thefts in the UK have surged alarmingly, with reports indicating a 150% increase over the past year. An estimated 78,000 individuals had their phones or bags snatched in the year leading up to March 2024, averaging over 200 incidents daily.

Types of Thefts:

A prevalent method involves thieves on bikes or mopeds swiftly snatching phones from unsuspecting pedestrians. These criminals often operate in busy urban areas, targeting distracted individuals while using their devices.

Protective Measures:

To safeguard against such thefts and protect personal data and finances, consider the following steps:

Enable Biometric Security: Utilise your phone’s fingerprint or facial recognition features to prevent unauthorised access.

Activate Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Implement 2FA on essential apps, especially banking and email, to add an extra layer of security.

Set a SIM Card PIN: Assign a unique PIN to your SIM card to prevent thieves from using it in another device, which could circumvent phone security measures.

Use Device Tracking: Activate features like “Find My iPhone” or “Find My Device” to locate, lock, or erase your phone remotely if it gets stolen.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Stay vigilant, especially in high-risk areas. Avoid using your phone openly on the streets, and be cautious of individuals on bikes or mopeds nearby.

By implementing these measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of theft and ensure your personal information remains secure.

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