Smartphone theft is on the rise, in part because criminals can resell the devices for up to $150 a piece.
Police say nearly 900 smartphones were stolen from January to June, a 10% increase from last year. iPad thefts are up 71%.
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According to Acting Chief Paul Humphries, the new Outsmart Smartphone Thieves Campaign urges people not to leave their phone unattended. Other ways to protect yourself and your device:
- Be aware of your surroundings
- Do not allow strangers to use your device
- Set device passwords
- Download a security & locator application
Police say smartphone theft is increasing nationwide. The cell phones stolen in Cincinnati from January, 2013 to June 2013 total 859. During that same period of time there were 65 iPads stolen. Here's what police suggest if you become a victim:
- Give up your property
- Get a good descriptions of the suspect
- Call 9-1-1
- Make a report
- Contact your carrier
- Activate GPS/Location Apps
You can ask questions about the new campaign and learn about other ways to prevent crime by attending the Cincinnati Police Department's National Night Out. It's Tuesday August 6th at these locations:
- Mt. Adams Monastery (6-9pm) 1100 St. Paul St.
- Findlay Market (6-8:30) Essen Strasse at Elm St.
- Owl's Nest Park (6-9) 1984 Madison Rd.
- Kroger (5-8:30) 2310 Ferguson Rd.
- Fleischman Gardens (6-8) 524 Forest Ave.
- Paddock Hills (7-9) Between Avon & Paddock
- Roselawn (6:30-8:30) Reading & Section Roads
- College Hill Presbyterian Church (6-9) 5742 Hamilton Ave.
