Phone theft is on the rise, with a reported 117,000 smartphones stolen in London last year, and the numbers are expected to increase further in 2025. Given the high value of some iPhones, exceeding £1,200, it’s no surprise that criminals target these devices. Aside from the financial loss, the risk of sensitive personal data being compromised, including photos, bank information, and private emails, adds to the concern.
Fortunately, Apple’s robust security features, such as Stolen Device Protection, make it challenging for thieves to use stolen iPhones. Despite these measures, some criminals attempt to bypass security protocols. If an iPhone is stolen, individuals should be cautious if they receive a message claiming the device has been found.
According to the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) in Switzerland, criminals are employing deceptive tactics to disable security features like Activation Lock. This feature ties an iPhone to its owner’s Apple ID, rendering it unusable and unsellable to thieves. It requires a password for actions like turning off Find My iPhone, erasing data, or reactivating the device.
The NCSC warns that scammers are sending personalized texts to the stolen device’s owner, containing links resembling official Apple websites. If tricked, individuals may inadvertently provide access codes to the scammers, enabling them to access personal data and wipe the device for resale.
The NCSC highlighted that the scammers’ ultimate goal is to disable Activation Lock. They manipulate text messages or iMessages, appearing to be from Apple, falsely claiming the lost iPhone has been found overseas. To enhance the credibility of these messages, scammers include precise details about the missing device, such as model, color, and storage capacity, obtained directly from the stolen phone.
The NCSC is investigating how scammers acquire user phone numbers, speculating it may involve SIM card data or exploiting Apple’s Find My feature. To safeguard iPhone users, the NCSC released five crucial safety tips. Users should remember that Apple never initiates contact for personal data or clicks on suspicious links.
If an iPhone is stolen, follow these guidelines:
– Disregard suspicious messages. Apple does not send notifications via text or email about found devices.
– Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited messages or entering Apple ID credentials on linked sites.
– If a device is lost, activate Lost Mode immediately using the Find My app or iCloud.com/find to lock the device.
– Exercise caution with contact details on the lock screen. Use a dedicated email address and retain the device in your Apple account to maintain Activation Lock.
– Secure your SIM card with a PIN to prevent unauthorized access to your phone number.
By staying vigilant and following these precautions, iPhone users can protect their devices from unauthorized access and potential data breaches.