Protect Your Cell Phone From Theft

We don't only love our smart and otherwise phones. We need them.

Thieves know this and have been hitting us where it hurts, according to an e-release from the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department.

The Sheriff has these recommendations for keeping your phone in your own hands:

Use the security lock code, or PIN feature, to lock your phone. Make it more difficult for others to access your personal information in your stolen phone.

Save your cell phone's serial number model and make.

Consider carefully what information you store in your phone. You may not guarantee your phone won't be stolen, but if the information isn't in the phone, the thief can't use it for Identity Theft.

Activate the Global Positioning System (GPS) tracking system on your phone or other electronic device. If the device does not have a GPS tracking system, there is after-market software you can buy.  

Stay aware of your surroundings. Don't walk down the street talking on your phone or texting unaware of your environment or of people nearby.

When eating in a restaurant (or relaxing in a public place), don't leave your phone on the table. Put it away and enjoy your meal.

If your phone gets stolen, find another phone to use and call your local sheriff's or police station as soon as possible. Call now, don't wait until you arrive at your next destination.

If you see the suspect, don't try to get it back from the suspect. Use caution but try to get a good description of the suspect and vehicle (license number, color, and model) and the last known direction of travel.