Mobile phones

Thousands of mobile phones are stolen every month. By taking a few simple steps you can reduce the risk of becoming a victim of phone theft.

• Always use the security lock code on your smart phone.
• Register your phone with the provider as they will be able to stop your phone being used if you report it as stolen.
• When using your phone, be aware of your surroundings and do not use it in crowded areas or where you feel unsafe. 
• Try to avoid using your phone outside in public at night.  If you are on the phone, it is visible and you are less likely to be aware of someone approaching.  Try to make calls prior to leaving your location. If you do need to make or take an urgent call, consider stopping somewhere safe and stand with your back to a wall or shopfront so you can continue to monitor your surroundings. 
• Walk with other people if possible.  Make sure everyone gets home safely at the end of a night. 
• Walk in busy areas where there are lots of people. Avoid shortcuts through alleyways, towpaths and parks, especially at night.
• Be mindful that excessive drinking of alcohol can potentially make people vulnerable to becoming victims of crime or prompt poor decision making  - we want to ensure everyone stays safe
• The 15-digit serial or IMEI number helps to identify your phone and can be accessed by keying *#06# into most phones or by looking behind the battery of your phone. Make a note of this number and keep it separate from your phone, as this number could help the police to trace ownership quickly if it is stolen. 
• You can also register your phone free at Immobilise. You can do this by visiting this website and entering your contact details and your mobile phone's IMEI number. If your phone is lost or stolen, they can then block both your SIM card and phone. If the phone is found by the police they will be able to trace the owner through Immobilise.

If your phone is stolen:

1. Report the theft to the police as soon as possible. They will want the following details: phone model details; phone number; and serial/IMEI number (if you have it). 
2. Contact your service provider immediately, giving the number of the phone. The network operator will then identify the IMEI number (International Mobile Equipment Identity) for the handset and arrange for it to be blocked on all networks. This means that even if the SIM card is swapped the phone will still be useless.