Phone theft is one of the most common types of crime: in London, a mobile is stolen every six minutes, according to police data.

Beyond the loss of the device, the risks are also in the stored personal and financial information, which criminals can use to access bank accounts, make unauthorized purchases, or even identity theft. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to minimize these risks.

What can thieves do if they get hold of an unprotected mobile phone?

Access your personal information

Such as emails, text messages, photos, and stored files, possibly gathering sensitive details like passwords or financial data.

Steal your money or make purchases

If your phone is linked to payment apps or has stored credit card details, criminals could make unauthorised purchases or transfers.

Carry out identity theft

Using the information on your phone, they might impersonate you to commit fraud, such as creating fake accounts or scamming your contacts.

Use your social media accounts

To post harmful content, send malicious messages, or scam your friends.

Suggested safety tips for mobile phone users

Be aware of your surroundings

  • Be mindful when inputting your PIN in at a public place, as someone could see it. This could give them access to your phone if they successfully steal it, even if you have activated facial recognition.
  • Keep your device in your pocket, when possible, as thieves are looking for unlocked devices, which are more valuable than locked ones. 
  • Avoid using phone covers that hold your driving license and other cards.

Protect your phone

  • Use a different PIN for your screen lock code and banking apps.
  • Use biometric authentication (face recognition or fingerprint) and activate two-step verification on your devices and apps, when possible.
  • If you have an iPhone, activate enable the ‘Stolen Device Protection’ for extra security when your device is away from familiar locations, such as home or work.
  • Set up tracking capabilities on your phone (e.g., Apple’s ‘Find My’ or Google’s ‘Find My Device’) to allow you to locate, secure or erase the device from another phone or laptop and block it remotely.
  • If available, set spending limits and alerts on your banking accounts to stay informed and minimize risks.