The Business Crime Hub, part of the Met Police have published advice for retailers and organisation in reference to the forthcoming launch of the new iPhones.
The new iPhone XS, XS Max and XR have been launched by Apple and are due to go on sale on Friday 21st September 2018. This launch may see in increase in crime, as criminals try to obtain the new phones.
The Metropolitan Police Service are advising retail phone stores to review their security and ensure that adequate resources are in place to respond to any increase in demand; Any security staff should have a visible presence and clearly display their ID badges. Also ensure you are able to control all access points into the premises and review and communicate and emergency/evacuation procedures with staff and security. Check CCTV is fully operational and that you have staff members available that can operate it.
Remain vigilant and please report any suspicious activity to security or police.
Below is advice that can be provided to staff and customers:
- Be aware of your surroundings at all times and keep your personal property secure.
- Don’t text while you’re walking you won’t notice potential thieves approaching.
- Keep away from roadsides if your mobile is in hand.
- Try going hands free or stand away from the roadside close to a wall so no one can come up behind you.
- Use the security features on your phone.
- Your phone comes with a range of security features, such as keypad locks and remote data wiping. Make sure they are all activated to stop thieves from accessing your phone and personal data.
- Register your phone on www.immobilise.com to help police return recovered stolen property and combat the sale of stolen goods. Police recover more than 2500 items registered to the website on average every month.
- Know how to identify your phone if it’s stolen. Find your IMEI number by dialling *#06# from your phone and keep a written note of it. If the phone is stolen, report it to the police and your mobile provider to stop it being used.
In the event of an emergency, always call 999.
