How can I prevent my phone from being stolen?

To prevent phone theft, enable strong security measures: set a SIM card PIN to prevent unauthorised use, use biometric authentication (fingerprint or face ID) alongside a 6+ digit passcode, enable app-specific security for banking apps with additional PINs and 2FA, and know your IMEI number by dialling *#06#. Keep your phone secure by being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

What is the best way to secure my phone in London?

The best way to secure your phone in London is to use multiple layers of security: enable SIM card lock from Settings > Security, set up biometric authentication with a strong backup passcode, secure your banking and payment apps with app-specific PINs, and store your IMEI number safely in a password manager. Be especially vigilant in busy areas like the London Underground, tourist attractions, and crowded streets.

Should I use a phone lanyard to prevent theft?

Phone lanyards can be helpful for preventing accidental drops and keeping your phone accessible, but they should be used alongside proper security measures. Enable SIM card locks, biometric security, and app-specific passwords. Be aware that lanyards alone won't prevent theft if someone forcibly grabs your phone. The most effective prevention combines physical awareness with strong digital security settings.

How do thieves steal phones on the tube?

Thieves on the London Underground typically use distraction techniques and target people using their phones near doors. Common methods include snatching phones as train doors close, targeting passengers who are distracted or have phones visible in pockets, and working in teams to create diversions. Protect yourself by keeping your phone secured when not in use, being extra vigilant near doors, and avoiding displaying expensive devices. If you must use your phone, position yourself away from the doors. If someone does grab it, let it go rather than be pulled after the phone or onto the platform: a phone is replaceable.

Prevention Guides

Take these preventative measures to secure your phone and minimise risk in case of theft.

Take Security Checkup Already stolen? Emergency steps

Essential Security Measures

Secure Your SIM

Set a PIN for your SIM card to prevent unauthorised use if stolen.

Go to Settings → Security
Find "SIM card lock"
Enable and set a unique PIN
Store PIN securely offline

Note: You'll need this PIN when restarting your phone.

Biometric Auth

Set up fingerprint or face recognition alongside a strong passcode.

Go to Settings → Security
Select Face ID or Fingerprint
Register your biometrics
Set 6+ digit backup passcode

App Security

Enable additional security for banking and payment apps.

Open banking app settings
Enable app-specific PIN
Turn on 2FA if available
Enable login notifications

Know Your IMEI Number

Your IMEI is your phone's unique 15-digit identifier. You'll need this to report theft to police and your network.

How to find your IMEI:

Dial *#06#
Settings → About Phone → IMEI
Check original phone box

Where to store it safely:

Password manager (most secure)
Written down at home
Email to yourself — the least secure option, because anyone who gets into your inbox gets your IMEI. Use it only if you have nothing else.

We protect your privacy

We never ask for or store your IMEI. Keep it private and secure.

Back Up Your Device

If your phone is stolen, the handset is replaceable but your photos, messages, and contacts may not be. An automatic cloud backup turns a theft into an inconvenience instead of a loss, and lets you restore everything to a replacement device in one step.

iPhone (iCloud Backup):

Settings → your name → iCloud
Tap iCloud Backup → turn it on
Check "Last successful backup" is recent
Free tier is 5 GB; photos may need iCloud+ or Google Photos

Android (Google backup):

Settings → Google → Backup
Turn on "Backup by Google One"
Check the last backup date shown
Free tier is 15 GB, shared with Gmail and Drive

Test it before you need it

Once a month, open your backup settings and confirm the last backup date. A backup that silently failed months ago is the most common reason victims lose everything.

How secure is your phone?

Complete our quick assessment to identify security gaps.

If your phone has already been taken, go straight to the emergency guide.

Start Security Checkup