MOBILE PHONE THEFT
Protect your mobile phone

Thousands of mobile phones are being stolen by street robbers every month and young people are especially vulnerable. By taking a few simple steps you can reduce your risk of becoming a victim of mobile phone theft. Children of school age are more likely to be victims of mobile phone theft compared with adults.

What can you do to protect your phone?

By providing the Police with some basic information about your phone, you can make it more difficult for a thief to use it.

Certain details may be needed by the Police if you report your phone stolen. The fifteen digit serial or IMEI number helps to identify your phone and can be accessed by keying in
*#06#

into most phones or by looking behind the battery of your phone. This number could help the Police trace ownership quickly.

If your phone is stolen your mobile phone operator can use it to bar the handset and hence make it un-useable. Keep this number safe in a separate place from your phone.

* Always use your phone's security lock or PIN number.
* Security mark the battery and phone with your post code and street number or the first two letters of your house name. An ultra violet marking pen is used for this purpose.
* Register your phone with the operator. If you report your phone stolen, the operator should then be able to bar the SIM card.
* When using your phone, remain aware of your surroundings and do not use it in crowded areas or where you feel unsafe. If it is necessary to use your phone in such circumstances, try to stand with your back to a wall, most 'snatches' are from behind.
* Avoid displaying your phone when it is in public view. Keep it with you at all times and do not leave it unattended.
* Do not leave you phone on the dashboard of your car. If you are driving it could invite car-jacking and if your car is parked, it could be stolen.

If your phone is stolen, please give these details to the police
* Fascia details * Phone number * Serial/IMEI number * PIN number

KEEP THESE DETAILS IN A SAFE PLACE, SEPARATE FROM YOUR PHONE

In addition there is a number which covers ALL networks to block your phone.
08701 123123