Mobile phone theft is on the increase nationwide with over 200 phones stolen every day.

Thieves can access your personal data and banking apps and can steal £100’s from you.

Our phones hold much of our lives nowadays and so its crucial that you protect yourself and your data.

A relatively new tactic is to shoulder surf you whilst you are using your mobile keeping an eye out to discover your PIN before snatching it. This gives the thief free reign over your phone when it’s in their possession. 

To help frustrate this tactic set up fingerprint or facial recognition on your device. This extra layer of security and enable you to unlock your phone with your face or finger rather than using the PIN which shoulder surfers look for.

You can also use biometrics to unlock your Banking Apps too.

Another useful tip is to find out and keep a record of your IMEI number. This is the International Station Equipment Identity number.

It’s a unique 15-digit code that every mobile device has and it can be used to block or identify a stolen phone.

To obtain this number dial *#06# (STAR HASH ZERO SIX HASH) on your device.

You will see several numbers displayed, the one you’re looking for is the IMEI or IMEI1 number.

Screen shot the number and record it ON A SEPARATE DEVICE.

The Police and your provider will want this number if you have to make a stolen report. 

These are a a couple of basic steps to make things harder for phone thieves.

Finally, it might seem obvious but stay vigilant and make sure your phone is out of sight as well as secure.

There is a wealth of additional hints and tips on line too if you want further reassurance.

The Ashby Beat team