The theft of mobile phones is a major problem in many countries. It’s becoming increasingly common for people to have their phones stolen or go missing. So, what do thieves do with stolen phones?
| Activity | Percentage of Stolen Phones |
|---|---|
| Resell on the black market | 50% |
| Keep as personal device | 20% |
| Sell to pawn shops | 15% |
| Export overseas | 10% |
| Other activities | 5% |
Unsurprisingly, the most common activity for thieves with stolen phones is to resell them on the black market. This is the most profitable way for them to make money, as the high demand for second-hand phones makes it easy for them to get a good price. They can either sell the phones to local buyers or export them overseas. It’s estimated that 50% of stolen phones are sold on the black market.
What other activities are done with stolen phones?
20% of stolen phones are kept as personal devices. This is more common with younger thieves, who may not have the money to buy a phone outright. They can simply keep the stolen phone and use it as their own, or they may purposefully steal a phone that matches their own tastes and preferences. It’s also possible that they may use the phone to commit further crimes, such as making fraudulent purchases.
15% of stolen phones are sold to pawn shops. This is a popular option for thieves as it’s quick and easy, and there’s no need for them to find a buyer. Pawn shops are willing to buy stolen phones, and they can often get a good price for them. It’s also a relatively safe option for the thief, as there’s a low risk of getting caught.
10% of stolen phones are exported overseas. This is a more risky option for thieves, as it requires them to find a buyer, arrange transport, and potentially deal with customs. However, the higher prices offered by foreign buyers make it an attractive option for some thieves. They can also use the internet to contact buyers in different countries, which makes the process much easier.
Finally, 5% of stolen phones are used for other activities. This could include selling parts of the phone, such as the camera, or using the phone to commit fraud. Some thieves may also use the phone to access the victim’s personal data or even attempt to blackmail them.
What Can You Do If Your Phone is Stolen?
If your phone is stolen, the first thing you should do is report it to the police. This is important, as it will allow the police to investigate the theft and hopefully recover the phone. You should also report the theft to your mobile phone provider and get them to block the phone. This will help to prevent the thief from using it and may make it harder for them to sell.
You should also consider using a phone tracking app to locate the device. Many phone tracking apps are available, and they can be used to locate a stolen phone if it’s connected to the internet. However, this isn’t always successful, and it won’t work if the phone is switched off or has been stolen overseas.
Finally, you should take steps to protect your data. This includes changing your passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and backing up your data regularly. This will help to protect your data from being accessed by the thief.
What Are the Most Common Types of Stolen Phones?
The most common types of stolen phones are iPhones, followed by Android phones and other smartphones. iPhones are the most popular choice for thieves, as they tend to hold their value better than other types of phones and are easier to sell on the black market. Android phones are also popular, as they are more affordable and are more widely used.
Other types of phones, such as Windows phones and older feature phones, are less likely to be stolen. This is because they are not as desirable to thieves, as they tend to be lower in value and harder to sell. However, they can still be targeted by thieves, so it’s important to take the same precautions with any type of phone.
What Are the Warning Signs of a Stolen Phone?
There are several warning signs that your phone may have been stolen. The most obvious sign is if your phone is missing or inaccessible. You may also notice changes in your phone’s behaviour, such as unknown apps being installed or strange messages being sent. If you notice any of these signs, you should take immediate action to secure your phone.
It’s also important to be aware of any suspicious activities. This includes people asking you questions about your phone or trying to access your data. If you notice anyone behaving suspiciously, you should report it to the police immediately.
Theft of mobile phones is an increasingly common problem in many countries. However, understanding what thieves do with stolen phones can help you to protect your device and keep it safe. The most common activity for thieves is to resell them on the black market, but they may also keep them as personal devices, sell them to pawn shops, export them overseas, or use them for other activities. It’s important to take precautions to protect your phone, such as reporting it to the police, using a phone tracking app, and taking steps to protect your data.