Distraction thefts

I wanted to provide you an update regarding Personal theft (e.g. pick pocketing, no violence used), which some members around this area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the Met Engage priority survey.

Distraction thefts of items, such as phones in cafes & money/cards at cash machines are still taking place. Please be vigilant, particularly around cash machines. We have received recent reports of devices being inserted into cash machines causing your bank card to get stuck & not returned. A suspect, nearby, will have observed you entering your PIN & will attend the machine to retrieve your card once you have left.

Be wary of unknown persons asking you for directions or random questions, particularly if you're sitting in a cafe with your phone out on the table. Suspects will ask you a question, placing a newspaper over your phone. They will then proceed to take your phone, hidden within the newspaper, whilst you're distracted helping them with their enquiry. They will then leave before you have realised your phone is gone.

Please see the link below for further advice on how to keep safe:

https://www.met.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/personal-safety-how-to-stay-safe/

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