There has been a significant jump in phone thefts in London, according to new research from Compare the Market, supported with data which has been obtained from a Freedom of Information request to the Metropolitan Police (Met).
Compare the Market’s figures reveal 70,137 phones were stolen in London in 2024 – equivalent to 1,349 each week. This is a substantial 34% increase from 2023, when 52,428 phones were stolen. As not all phone thefts are reported, the total number of phones stolen may be much higher. The Met has stated that almost 40% of phone thefts in London occur in Westminster and the West End.
Phone thefts have risen in London year on year as the crime has increased by 244% since 2020. In total, more than 200,00 phones were stolen between 2020 and 2024. Phones are often stolen by gangs of thieves using mopeds and e-bikes who then resell the phones abroad.
New smartphones can cost more than £1,000, so the effects of the crime may potentially cost Londoners a combined £70 million if they replace their stolen phones with the latest models. The Met has calculated that phone theft is now a £50 million per year industry for criminal gangs.
Compare the Market is encouraging people to check if their phones are covered by their home contents insurance. Some of these policies will cover personal possessions outside of the home. If not already protected, people can shop around for policies with personal possessions cover when they come to renew their policy, or buy standalone gadget insurance.
Anna McEntee, Insurance Expert at Compare the Market, said: “Londoners and those visiting the capital will be concerned by the substantial rise in phone thefts last year. Criminals are becoming increasingly brazen in the city, often using mopeds or e-bikes to make a quick getaway.
“Given the increase in thefts, it’s worth checking if your phone is covered by your existing home insurance policy. If not, you may want to buy separate phone insurance or add personal possessions cover to your policy when you come to renew. It is a good idea to shop around to find the right policy for your needs. If your phone is stolen, you should report it to the police straight away, as you will need a crime reference number for any insurance claim. Then contact your insurance provider to start the claim process.”
If your phone gets stolen, National Police Chiefs’ Council recommends:
Secure your phone using your phone’s security features to stop someone from using your phone if it’s stolen. Choose a strong PIN, passcode, password or pattern.
Get your IMEI number by typing *#06# on your phone keypad. Keep a note of it somewhere other than on your phone. The IMEI can help track the phone down if it’s lost or stolen.
Use a tracking app on your phone so you can see where it is from another device like a laptop. Use it as soon as possible, before thieves have a chance to disable it.
Turn off message previews so that thieves won’t see any messages about reset or login codes when your phone is locked.
Make sure you can still access your data via other devices.
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