Phone theft is on the rise with a significant increase in stolen smartphones, particularly in London. Last year, 117,000 smartphones were reported stolen in the city, and this number is expected to grow further in 2025. The high value of devices like iPhones, some exceeding £1,200, makes them prime targets for criminals. Beyond the financial loss, the theft of personal data such as photos, banking information, and private emails poses a significant risk.
Fortunately, Apple has implemented robust security features like Stolen Device Protection to deter thieves from using stolen iPhones effectively. Despite these safeguards, criminals are attempting to override security measures, including the Activation Lock feature that binds an iPhone to its owner’s Apple ID, rendering it unusable and unsellable.
According to the National Cyber Security Centre in Switzerland, thieves are using deceptive tactics to trick owners of stolen iPhones into providing access codes to remove Activation Lock. They send personalized messages containing links that resemble official Apple websites, aiming to extract vital personal data and reset the device for resale.
The NCSC highlighted that scammers’ primary objective is to bypass the Activation Lock, which prevents unauthorized access to the device. By sending messages that appear to be from Apple, including accurate device details like model, color, and storage capacity, scammers aim to deceive users into divulging sensitive information.
While the method by which criminals obtain users’ phone numbers remains uncertain, it is suspected that they may acquire this information from SIM cards or through Apple’s Find My feature, which allows owners to display contact details on lost devices’ lock screens.
To enhance user safety, the NCSC has issued five crucial tips to follow in the event of an iPhone theft. It is essential to remember that Apple does not initiate contact via unsolicited messages or request personal information through links.
If your iPhone is stolen, adhere to the following guidelines:
• Disregard suspicious messages claiming a lost device has been found, as Apple does not communicate in this manner.
• Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited messages or entering Apple ID credentials on unfamiliar websites.
• Act promptly if your device is lost by activating Lost Mode through the Find My app to secure the device.
• Exercise caution with the contact details displayed on your lost device’s lock screen, utilizing a dedicated email address and retaining the device in your Apple account to maintain the Activation Lock.
• Safeguard your SIM card with a PIN to prevent unauthorized access to your phone number, a simple yet effective measure against potential theft.