London is facing a significant issue with smartphone theft. In the first eight months of the year, more than 80,000 iPhones were stolen. The Metropolitan Police Service cites Apple as partly responsible for this predicament, accusing the company of not utilizing an important database that tracks stolen mobile devices in the UK.
The Police state that Apple does not employ the National Mobile Property Register, which is the database of all reported stolen phones. We see that giving this security gap, criminals can easily take full advantage of the situation and resell stolen devices through Apple’s own trade-in program. These stolen iPhones will be accepted for store credit without Apple checking the theft register.
The issue is not just related to theft. There is a link to organized crime networks which are exporting stolen phones internationally. The reality is this very issue impacts public safety directly and is a method of propelling organized crime. Often, you’ll see stolen phones sold in international markets.
If your iPhone is stolen, you will want to take action immediately. First, sign into your iCloud account and turn on Find My iPhone. Be sure to take action immediately on the device and activate Lost Mode. If you do this correctly, it will immediately lock the phone and put your contact message on the screen.
You may want to consider using “Erase iPhone” as an option for safety. This will remotely erase all of your personal information. It protects your photographs and any banking application on your device. It also secures your private messages. Complete this step if recovery is doubtful.
Next, contact your mobile network provider and ask them to block your SIM card. Blocking your SIM card prevents anyone from misusing your number. It also stops criminals or other individuals from accessing any one-time password (OTP) codes sent to your number, and protects your linked accounts.
Promptly visit your local police station to file an official theft report. While there, you will need to provide your phone’s unique identifying IMEI number. You will find it on the original box the phone came in as well as within the settings of the device. Next, you will need to make a request using the CEIR portal. This will block the phone from being used on any of the Indian networks.
Immediately log out of all important accounts. Change the passwords for your banking and payment related apps. Make sure to consider any services like Google Pay and/or Paytm. Then move on to your social media and email accounts to secure those as well. These steps help to protect your money and identity.
Also Read: Best Gaming and Travel Phones with 7000 mAh Battery in 2025
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