- Protect Your Mobile Phone
Thousands of mobile phones are stolen every month and young people are especially vulnerable.
By taking a few simple steps, you can reduce the risk of having your phone stolen.
-
Always use your phones security lock code or PIN number.
-
Security mark the battery (and phone) with your postcode and street number or the first two letters of your house name. For more information on security marking, contact the crime prevention officer at your local police station.
-
Register your phone with your service provider. If you report your phone stolen they 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, unless it's an emergency.
-
When carrying your phone don’t leave it exposed to view, particularly clipped on the side or rear of your belt, phones are easily removed in crowds.
-
If you attend school and must take the phone with you do not leave it unattended in your coat, the changing rooms, a school or sports bag or desk. Where possible hand it to a teacher or other responsible person.
-
Never leave your phone unattended in a car at anytime.
But If your phone is stolen by providing the police with some basic information you can make it more difficult for a thief to use it.
The IMEI number (International Manufacturers Equipment Identifier)
Every phone has a 15 or 16 figure ID number. This number is unique to your phone and will help the police to identify it.
The number is printed on a sticker under the phone's battery and can also be accessed by keying *#06# into most phones.
The following details should also be provided to the police along with the IMEI number.
-
Fascia details:
-
Phone number :
-
Serial number:
-
Pin number:
KEEP THESE DETAILS IN A SAFE PLACE, SEPARATE FROM YOUR PHONE.
And finally...
If you know a mobile phone thief, or have information about anyone involved in criminal activity, and you wish to remain anonymous please call Crimestoppers.