Blink and it's gone.
Over 116,000 phones stolen in London every year — a 150% increase since 2023. Organised gangs use bikes, mopeds, and distraction tactics to snatch phones in seconds. Live police.uk data tracking 861 monthly records across UK cities.
London visitors
Tourist safety: keep your phone secure in London
Fast tips for travellers and students: avoid kerbside scrolling, use cross-body bags, pre-save Find My links, and know who to contact if you're targeted.
Before you arrive
Enable Find My, turn on device passcodes and Face ID/biometrics, and store IMEI + carrier contact numbers.
While in the city
Keep devices away from kerbs and train doors, use cross-body straps, and avoid flashing phones in crowded tourist hotspots.
If it's stolen
Lock the device remotely, block the SIM, call your bank, and file a report with police—follow our 5-step emergency guide.
Latest Mobile Security News
Updates on UK mobile theft trends, policy changes, and safety guides.
More than 1,000 phones seized in raid on London shop in theft crackdown
Four men have been arrested after thousands of phones were raided from a convenience store in London
Revolut unveils Street Mode to fight transfer muggings
Revolut has launched Street Mode, a location-aware security feature that adds extra checks and a one-hour delay on transfers outside trusted locations to combat transfer mugging.
Alexa Chung Becomes Latest Celebrity Targeted by Phone Snatchers in London
TV presenter and model Alexa Chung clung on to her phone after being targeted by a thief in east London, refusing to let them take it during an important conversation.
See how theft happens—and how to stop it
Slide-by-slide guides for moped snatches, public transport grabs, nightlife thefts, and more.
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visual playbooks
Theft Hotspots & Statistics
See where thefts happen most, when you're at highest risk, and how the epidemic is growing across UK cities.
in London (2024)
since 2023
charges
(theft rate)
Essential Resources
Prevention Guides
Secure your device with PIN locks, SIM protection, and app security. Learn how to prevent theft before it happens.
Learn How to Protect Your PhoneEmergency Response
Phone stolen? Follow our 5-step emergency checklist to lock your device, secure accounts, and report the theft.
See Emergency StepsUK Bank Contacts
Emergency contact numbers for 25+ UK banks. Secure your accounts and prevent fraud immediately.
Find Your BankMobile Networks
Contact details for 50+ UK mobile providers. Block your SIM and prevent unauthorized usage.
Find Your ProviderLooking for More Resources?
Access our complete library of guides, tools, community stories, and expert advice.
Browse All Resources