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I wanted to provide an update regarding Mobile phone theft, which some members around this area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the Met Engage priority survey. Dear Residents,
Your Local PCSO Robbins 7133SN would like to bring your attention to one of the common thefts of Mobile phone received from police being reported.
If your phone is stolen from a UK pub or cafe, report it to the police immediately by calling 101 and providing your IMEI number, then report it to your network provider to block the SIM and device. Back up your phone's data to prevent immediate financial fraud and check the venue's CCTV if available. To prevent phone theft, avoid leaving your phone unattended on tables or bars, as this is a common tactic.
How to prevent phone theft in pubs and cafes
Don't leave your phone unattended:
Avoid leaving your phone on a bar or table, as this makes it an easy target.
• Be aware of distractions:
Watch out for tactics like "table surfing" where a thief uses a newspaper or map to distract you and steal your phone.
• Use a physical security tag:
Consider using security tags that can be tethered to your phone to make it harder to steal.
• Keep your phone in a zipped pocket or secure bag:
This reduces the risk of it being snatched.
Important considerations
• Financial fraud:
Thieves can access your banking apps and personal information, so it's crucial to secure your phone to prevent identity and financial fraud.
• Table surfing:
This is a known technique where a thief moves their own item over your phone to conceal it before quickly taking the phone and leaving.
• AI in theft:
Thieves can now use artificial intelligence to bypass phone security, including biometrics and encryption.
• Increased risks: Mobile phone theft is a growing problem in London and other busy areas, with thieves sometimes using scooters or bikes for quick getaways
 We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years, and we want to make sure you have had the chance to have your say. The consultation paper is available online, as well as a survey to let us know what you think. This closes on the 15 September. |
