Your possessions

Top tips to keep valuables safe in public places

• Wallets and purses should be kept out of sight and secure, especially in crowded places.
• Do not leave bags open, on the backs of chairs or on the floor.
• Do not leave mobile phones, iPods on pub or cafe tables.
• Keep chequebooks and cheque cards separate.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
• Never carry your PIN number with your card.

Top tips on preventing your mobile being stolen

A national survey revealed, that as many as 10,000 mobile phones are stolen every month.  Two thirds of the victims are aged between 13 and 16.   Many phones are also stolen from unattended cars (Source: Mobile Life Report 2008).

• Always use your mobile in a safe place and be aware of those nearby.
• Keep your mobile out of sight when you’re not using it, especially in the car, or on view on a table in a pub, restaurant or public place.
• Make sure you lock the keypad using a pin number when you are not using your phone.
• Mark your phone (and its battery and other accessories) with your postcode. You can do this by using an ultra-violet marker pen or another method of marking. 
• Record the details of your mobile on the immobilise website for free at www.immobilise.co.uk  (National mobile phone and property register).
• Write down your unique 15 digit IMEI number which you can get by pressing *#06# on your mobile. If your mobile is lost or stolen and you’ve reported this reference number to the police, it can be placed on a lost or stolen database, which can lead to it being returned.

What to do if you’re mobile is lost or stolen?

• Call your network provider immediately to report your mobile stolen/lost so they can block your phone.
• If you don’t know your network provider you can call Immolilise on 08701 123 123 to register your phone stolen.
• You should then report a lost or stolen phone to the police as soon as possible giving the mobile phone number, type of handset and IMEI number.
• Don’t forget if you have lost your mobile you can call a number to reverse the charges by calling 100.