Londoners are 'very on edge' about city's phone snatching epidemic

London is grappling with a significant surge in mobile phone thefts, with recent data revealing that a device is reported stolen every six minutes. In 2022 alone, the Metropolitan Police recorded approximately 91,000 phone thefts, averaging 248 incidents daily.

A substantial portion of these crimes involves perpetrators on mopeds or e-bikes. These thieves often target pedestrians, swiftly snatching phones from individuals using their devices on the streets. The rapid approach and escape facilitated by these vehicles make it challenging for victims and police to catch the culprits.

The impact of these thefts extends beyond the immediate loss of property. Victims frequently report significant financial repercussions, especially when thieves exploit mobile payment apps to withdraw substantial sums.

Watch our video above to find out how Londoners are protecting themselves against phone snatchers.

In response to this escalating issue, Met Police have intensified efforts to combat phone theft. Initiatives include increased patrols in hotspot areas, deployment of plainclothes officers, and collaboration with second-hand retailers to prevent the resale of stolen devices.

Despite these measures, the recovery rate remains low, with only about 2% of stolen phones returned to their owners.

Authorities are also urging mobile phone manufacturers to implement enhanced security features that would render stolen devices unusable, thereby reducing their appeal to thieves. The Mayor of London and the Metropolitan Police Commissioner have called on the mobile industry to "design out" incentives for theft, emphasising the need for a collaborative approach to tackle this pervasive problem.

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As London continues to address this pressing issue, residents and visitors are advised to remain vigilant, particularly when using mobile devices in public spaces, and to report any incidents of theft to the police promptly.

As part of our voices of London series, we spoke to members of the public about how their feeling about phone theft.

While everyone found the snatching craze a concern, some Londoners said they felt it was a ‘sign of the times’, while others said they are ‘very on edge about it’.