19 Phones Stolen In One Day

9 February 2014, 08:27 | Updated: 30 March 2016, 13:50

Nottinghamshire Police are advising people planning a night out in the city to take care of their mobile phones.

There were 19 reports of mobile phone theft in Nottingham on Friday (7 February).

The force is reminding people to follow a number simple steps to avoid losing their phone:

Keep your phone with you at all times. Don't leave it unattended for even the shortest time.
Be extra vigilant in dark or poorly lit areas of bars and other venues
Be aware of who is around you. You never know who may be eyeing up your phone.
Make sure your phone has a secure PIN number or password
Take a note of the phone's unique IMEI number by typing # 06 #. This will help identify it if it is stolen.
It is recommended that you visit the Immobilise website and register your phone and other valuable items.
If possible, download a tracking app to help locate your phone if it does go missing.
You should also alert your mobile phone network provider as soon as possible to prevent anyone else using it.

Chief Inspector Jim West said: "Our mobile phone is among the most expensive items each of us owns these days, not to mention all the personal data and treasured photos we keep on it, so it makes sense to ensure we don't risk losing it.

"I would urge anyone out in Nottingham tonight to keep hold of their phone at all times and just be aware of your surroundings and the people around you.

"We want everybody to have a safe and enjoyable night out in the city. We will have a number of police officers on patrol and a dedicated operation to deter thieves and we will be urging door staff to be vigilant too, but if people follow these simple security steps the chances are that their phones will be safe and sound."

To report a crime, telephone 101 or, in an emergency, call 999.