The theft of mobile phones is not a new phenomenon, however, SABRIC is seeing an emerging trend where mobile phones that are being snatched from owners are affording criminals the opportunity to gain access to the victim’s personal and even confidential information which can then be used to commit a crime.
Mobile snatching is on the rise in South Africa, and it’s not just the phone, but all your personal data stored. Criminals typically can snatch in various ways, one while being busy on it and the phone is unlocked, giving them full access to everything on your cellphone. Another way of snatching is being robbed by thieves, could it be streets, malls, in your car by the robots , run away with all your possessions, and take whatever they may need and throw or trash the unnecessary belongings.
In the event that your mobile phone is lost or stolen, borrow a phone and contact your bank immediately so that they can deactivate your bank card and report it as stolen. And other alternative ways to prevent cellphone snatching
Be aware of your surroundings,
- Be aware of your surroundings,
- Don’t leave your phone lying around making it easy to snatch information
- Use a hands free unit
- Don’t text an walk
- Do not keep your personal information in your phone
- Change your password
Some insurance policies also include cover for the mechanical and electrical breakdown of cell phones such as cracked screens, water damage and touch screen or camera damage. If you have specified your phone on your insurance policy, it will be covered not only for theft or less, but for accidental damage too.
Be careful and of how you expose your cellphone during public or in private spaces, also keep important information and do not share with strangers. Let’s better our lives and our communities by also reporting such issues to authorities.
