Phone theft is on the rise, with London seeing 117,000 smartphones stolen last year, and the numbers expected to increase in 2025. The high value of iPhones, some exceeding £1,200, makes them prime targets for thieves, not only for their monetary worth but also for the sensitive data they hold, like photos, bank information, and private emails.
Apple’s robust security features, including Stolen Device Protection, make it challenging for thieves to use stolen iPhones. Despite this, criminals are attempting to bypass these safeguards. One tactic involves sending personalized messages to the phone’s owner, claiming the device has been found, with a link to what appears to be an official Apple site.
The Activation Lock feature, which ties an iPhone to the owner’s Apple ID, renders the device useless to thieves. However, scammers are devising ways to trick owners into providing access codes that allow them to unlock the device, access personal data, and erase it for resale. The National Cyber Security Centre warns users to be cautious of such tactics.
Criminals may obtain phone numbers through SIM cards or exploit features like Find My, which allows owners to display contact information on a lost device’s lock screen. To safeguard against such scams, the NCSC offers five essential tips, emphasizing that Apple never contacts users unexpectedly for personal information or clicks on links.
Users are advised to ignore unsolicited messages, refrain from clicking on suspicious links, enable Lost Mode immediately if a device is lost, be cautious about displaying contact details on the lock screen, and protect the SIM card with a PIN. These precautions can help prevent unauthorized access and protect personal information.