Our local neighbourhood police team have just circulated some advice about mobile phone theft, via the new platform Met Engage (which we are all encouraged to sign up for). It’s mainly common sense, but worth repeating.

‘We wanted to provide you with an update regarding Mobile phone theft, which people around your area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the priority survey.

We are aware of the recent rise in groups targeting people near the Herne Hill Station area and attempting to steal mobile phones and other valuables. We will be increasing patrols of the station and town centre to try and tackle this problem along with British Transport Police. Please stay alert and look after your belongings.

If anyone has any further concerns and would like to speak to an officer one on one please feel free to approach officers when you see them or message us so we can arrange something for you.

Mobile phone thieves regularly prey on those they think are easy targets. We know their tactics and use intelligence –led strategies to catch those responsible. In the meantime, there a number of things you can do to keep yourself safe:

• Don’t leave your phone, iPad, tablet or camera unattended, out of your sight, or left on a table. Thieves can grab a phone from a table in seconds.
• Be aware of your surroundings and only use your mobile when it feels safe to.
• When you’ve finished using it, put it away.
• Secure your phone by choosing a strong pin or password
• Set up a tracking app on your phone so you can see where it is from another device like a laptop. Use it as soon as possible, before thieves have a chance to disable it.
• Turn off message previews, so that thieves won’t see any messages about reset or login codes when your phone is locked.
• Keep a note of your IMEI number (to access, type *#06# on your phone keypad)
• Plan your route, especially if you are going somewhere you have not been before. Keep to busy, well-lit streets and walkways. Move with purpose and appear confident.

 We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our  New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years.’