Business Daily The global trade in stolen phones
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Aug 27, 2025 Smartphone theft is on the rise, especially in urban areas, with thieves exploiting sensitive data for profit. Personal stories highlight the urgency of protecting personal information. The underground market reveals a complex web of organized crime, smuggling stolen phones across borders. London faces a surge in targeted thefts linked to financial fraud, prompting discussions on preventive measures and security advancements. There's a call for global cooperation among law enforcement to combat these escalating threats.
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Night Out Theft Emptied Accounts
- James O'Sullivan had his phone stolen at a bar and thieves emptied his bank accounts within 11 minutes.
- He later realised they could have transferred six-figure crypto held on the device if not well protected.
Unlocked Phone Snatch And Follow-Up Scam
- Deborah Weitzmann's unlocked phone was snatched on a London street and switched off almost immediately.
- The thieves then sent scam messages to extract PINs once she replaced her device.
London As A Phone Theft Hotspot
- London recorded over 70,000 phone thefts last year, about one every six minutes, making it Europe's hotspot.
- Gangs on e-bikes view snatches as quick, lucrative jobs yielding up to £200 per phone for foot soldiers.