Some useful insights on smartphone theft here from SquareTrade Europe.
The UK is experiencing a surge in mobile phone theft, with July emerging as the peak month for claims, according to new data from SquareTrade Europe. In 2024, theft and loss claims reached its summer peak at nearly 37% in July alone, and is expected to spike again this summer, coinciding with major festivals and summer travel.
SquareTrade’s 2025 analysis across 12 European markets reveals that UK claims now represent 39% of all phone theft and loss claims – a 21% surge from last year making it the leading country for missing devices in Europe. This increase mirrors official government statistics showing snatch thefts hit 99,000 last year, the highest since 2003.
The financial impact is significant: with the average claim valued at £1,200, UK consumers could be losing up to £118 million annually.
Beyond the cost of the device, criminals are increasingly targeting phones for access to sensitive data, including banking apps, crypto wallets and personal accounts.
July Theft Trends:
– Summer spike: the UK hit a peak of 37% theft and loss claims in Europe in July 2024, the highest in the summer and expected to spike again this year, aligning with events like Wireless and Glastonbury.
– Capital warning: London accounts for 42% of UK thefts, followed by Ilford and Birmingham.
– iPhone targeted: 80% of stolen phones are iPhones, with the iPhone 15 Pro Max most frequently stolen, followed by the iPhone 16 Pro Max and Galaxy S24 Ultra.
– Young adults at risk: 97% of 18–24-year-olds report being emotionally attached to their phones, yet most lack insurance.
– Protection gap: While 58% of Brits say they’re cautious in public, only 20% have insurance coverage.
Kevin Gillan, Managing Director, SquareTrade Europe said:
“July creates a perfect storm – festivals, holidays, and crowded spaces increase the risk of theft. London is especially vulnerable, and the UK now leads Europe in phone theft claims.
Thieves aren’t just after your phone – they’re after your digital identity. A stolen device can lead to drained bank accounts, compromised emails and long-term financial damage. People need to understand that losing your phone today is far more serious than it was five years ago.”
Insurance Gaps and Misconceptions
Young people are especially at risk during summer months, with festivals and travel increasing exposure to theft. Despite this, they’re the least likely to have insurance. While 58% of Brits say they stay alert in public, nearly a third worry about banking fraud if their phone is stolen – yet many don’t realise that standard insurance often doesn’t cover financial losses tied to stolen devices.
How to Protect Your Device
Before You Go Out:
– Enable Find My iPhone/Find My Device
– Save screenshots of important documents
– Record your phone’s IMEI number
– Use two-factor authentication on financial apps (on separate device)
– Consider a phone lanyard for festivals
While You’re Out:
– Keep phones in zipped front pockets, not back pockets or open bags
– Avoid using banking apps in crowded areas
– Be alert during crowd surges at events
– Don’t leave phones unattended on tables
– Watch for distractions – thieves often work in pairs
If Your Phone Is Stolen:
– Act within the first 30 minutes
– Freeze banking apps and financial services
– Change passwords for key accounts
– Report the theft to police and get a crime reference number
– Contact your network provider to block the SIM
– Use Find My iPhone or similar to locate or wipe the device
