The rise in phone theft is a well-known issue, with recent data revealing that 117,000 smartphones were stolen in London alone last year. This number is expected to increase in 2025. Given the high value of some iPhones, which can exceed £1,200, it is no surprise that criminals target these devices. Apart from the financial loss, there is also concern about the sensitive personal information stored on these phones, including photos, banking details, and private emails.
Fortunately, Apple has implemented robust security measures, such as Stolen Device Protection, making it challenging for thieves to use stolen iPhones. However, some criminals attempt to bypass these security features. If an iPhone is stolen, owners should be cautious of receiving messages claiming that the device has been found.
The National Cyber Security Centre in Switzerland has warned about a new tactic used by criminals to circumvent security features like Activation Lock, which links an iPhone to its owner’s Apple ID, making it unusable and unsellable to thieves. Criminals are now sending personalized texts to the stolen device’s owner, containing a link to a fake Apple website.
If users fall for this scam and provide the code to the criminals, they can access personal data and wipe the device for resale. The ultimate goal of scammers is to remove the Activation Lock, enabling them to unlock the device. It is unclear how criminals obtain users’ phone numbers, but it is suspected that they may acquire this information through the SIM card or Apple’s Find My feature.
To safeguard iPhone users, the NCSC has issued five crucial tips for protection. Users should avoid responding to suspicious messages and refrain from clicking on links or entering Apple ID credentials on unknown websites. In case of a lost device, users should immediately enable Lost Mode via the Find My app to lock the device. Additionally, users should be cautious about displaying contact details on the lock screen and ensure that the SIM card is protected with a PIN.
It is important to note that Apple will never contact users out of the blue or request personal data via unsolicited messages. Following these guidelines can help prevent falling victim to phone theft scams and protect personal information.