Do not let your summer holiday be spoiled by phone thieves is the message from Croydon police.

Youngsters are being urged to take some simple steps to protect their phones against thieves, as incidents of theft and robbery tend to increase over the summer months.

Officers are asking youths to register their phone with the Immobilise website, so if it is taken it will be easier for police to identify and recover the phone.

Follow these tips to keep your phone safe:

  1. Be aware of what’s happening around you and keep your mobile and other valuables out of sight wherever possible
  2. Don't walk and text at the same time - you’ll be less aware of what’s going on around you
  3. Reaching for your phone as soon as you get off public transport gives thieves an opportunity. Wait a while to check your mobile
  4. Get your phone and other valuables registered at www.immobilise.com to help police identify and quickly return stolen items to you
     

Detective Chief Inspector Steve Baxter, who leads Croydon’s robbery squad said: “We want young people to enjoy their summer holidays, but if you have your phone stolen, then it’s not going to be much fun.

“Although robbery is falling in Croydon, there are some very simple things you can do to help avoid being targeted by thieves.

“We’re asking young people to take note of these tips and parents should also encourage their children to get their mobiles signed up to the Immobilise website to protect their phones.”