5 Ways You Can Safeguard Yourself Against Phone Theft

Our smartphones are often one of our most valuable possessions – providing us with entertainment, organisational tools as well as a way to connect with the wider world. So, understandably, the thought of losing them to theft can be stressful, to say the least.

And despite our best efforts, there is still a substantial level of smartphone crime within the UK. For instance, from April 2017 to April 2018, smartphone related thefts made up a considerable 39% of thefts from a person reports. So, evidently, there is still work to be done!

But you needn’t despair. Fortunately, there are some simple precautions that every individual can take to reduce the chances of falling victim to smartphone theft, or, if not, measures to lessen the blow.

To ensure that you have all the information you need we’ve formulated the top 5 ways that you can safeguard your phone against smartphone theft:

1. Ensure that you have a tracking app

This is a simple but often overlooked precaution. Apps such as Find My iPhone by Apple or Find My Device by Google will allow you to track the exact location of your device should it not be in its usual place. Often, you’ll find your phone at the bottom of your bag or tucked away somewhere in the house – but having a tracking app can ensure you have peace of mind!

2. Utilise security apps

• Although many phone manufacturers have improved their security measures year-on-year, it is still worthwhile to look into additional security options.
• You may not be aware but there is an abundance of security-related apps out there, such as; Norton, Kaspersky, and Lookout. All of these brands offer unique features that safeguard your device in the event of a theft. Kaspersky, for instance, features an antivirus software that protects your device from any harmful malware but also offers an anti-theft feature which protects your stored personal information from thieves.
• These apps will often be available at a range of prices – or some may be completely free! So, it’s important to shop around when looking to potentially invest your money in one.

3. Purchase a comprehensive insurance plan

• When purchasing a phone, it is inevitable that you will consider whether to invest in insurance. Now, this debate normally boils down to one consideration. Yes, it is a good idea – but do I want the extra e.xpense?
• Trust us, you do.
• A solid insurance plan can cost you as little as £8 a month yet offers a whole host of benefits – including a replacement device if you become a victim of theft!

4. Back up your phone

We’re all guilty of opting for the ‘remind me later’ option when it comes to backing up our phone but this is a habit worth breaking. Because, if your phone is stolen the last thing you want to worry about is whether you’re going to lose hundreds of photos and videos that make up your memories.
So, don’t let that be the case!

5. Be smart

• Some situations will always be out of our individual control, however, there are a number of precautions we can all easily take to reduce the chances of phone theft.
• For example, don’t keep your phone in an open pocket when in public. It may seem convenient as you can easily access it, but that means that someone else could too! We would suggest keeping your device in a zipped compartment of your bag or jacket to lessen the chances of someone else getting their hands on it.
• It’s also important to have a strong PIN or password. So rather than opting for your birthday, maybe go for something a bit harder to guess