Phone Snatch Prevention Advice

Phone Snatch Prevention Advice

Dear Resident,

We’re reminding residents, commuters and visitors in ST Giles Ward to stay alert when using mobile phone in public. Criminals often target people who are distracted while texting, calling, using maps, or waiting near busy roads, stations, but stops and shopping areas. Phones can be snatched by offenders on bikes, mopeds or e-scooters, sometimes approaching from behind or mounting the pavement.

Help protect yourself

Look up, look out-stay aware of who is around you.

Avoid texting while walking- it makes you an easier target.

If you need to use your phone, stand away from the roadside and, where possible, close to a building or wall.

Use hands-free where possible so your phone is not visible in your hand.

Don’t leave your phone on tables in cafes restaurants or shop.

Use Face ID, fingerprint or a strong passcode and make sure your phone auto-locks quickly.

Record your IMEI number and keep it somewhere safe. This helps your network provider block the phone if it is stolen.

Never chase or confront a thief-your safety comes first.

If a theft is happening now, or the suspect is nearby, call 999. For non-emergency reports, online via the Met police website or call 101.

Please share this advice with family, friends and neighbours.

ST Giles Safer neighbourhood Team

Kindest regards

PCSO SOHAIL CHAUDHARY

Reply to this message

Message Sent By
Sohail Chaudhary
(Metropolitan Police, PCSO, ST Giles Ward)