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Carrying your phone

If you're not making a call, make sure that your phone is hidden away. Keep it in one of your front pockets or inside a bag. Don't attach it to your belt or around your neck.

Thieves are opportunists, so don't make yourself an easy target by showing off the handset you’re carrying around.

Lots of people take their phones out of their pockets when they're sitting down. If you're out with your friends, don't put your phone on a table as anyone walking by can easily run off with it.

Making a call

If you're making a call on your mobile in a public area, make sure you always keep an eye on what's going on around you. Thieves go to great lengths to get their hands on the latest handsets, so keep your wits about you.

You should also try to avoid using your mobile phone in public at night. If you do have to use your phone, try to find an area that's well-lit. Also avoid getting out your phone at train stations and bus stops as these are areas that thieves target.

Securing your handset

It's always a good idea to write down the make, model and unique identification number (IMEI number) of your handset. This can be found behind the battery, or by dialling '*#06#' on your handset.

Keep these details in a safe place and completely separate from your phone. You'll need to give them to your service provider if your phone is lost or stolen.

Whatever model of handset you have, your handset has in-built security features that you can use to protect it. If you don't know how to use them, take a look at the instruction manual.

For example, you can set up a PIN number that you have to key in before you make a call. This stops anyone else using your phone and protects your personal details.

Register, Report, Reunite

Register

You can register the details of your handset with The National Mobile Property Register. This will help the police to return your phone to you if it gets stolen. You should also register the details of your phone with your network provider.

• The National Mobile Property Register Opens new window

Report

If your phone is lost or stolen, report it immediately to the police.

You should also contact your network provider. When you get through, tell them your phone has been stolen. They'll be able to block both the handset and the SIM card so that they can't be used any more.

Reunite

If the police do recover your stolen handset, it's a lot easier for them to reunite you with your phone if it is registered. They can match up the serial number to your name and address and get it back to you quickly.

More useful links

• The National Mobile Phone Crime Unit Opens new window

Useful contacts

• Bullying online

• Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service (CAFCASS)

• Citizens Advice Bureau

• NSPCC (National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children)

• Young people contacts