The places in London where your phone is most likely to be stolen 

New research reveals the places where Londoners are most likely to have their phone stolen. 

Mobile phone insurance experts, Loveit Coverit, conducted an analysis of Metropolitan Police data spanning from January 2023 to 2024, uncovering the London boroughs most susceptible to phone theft.

To compile their findings, Loveit Coverit analysed the total number of “theft from the person” crimes as reported by data.police.uk. This refers to the assailant stealing property while the victim holds or carries the property.

Drawing upon insights from the Metropolitan Police, which revealed that 70% of all thefts in London last year involved mobile phones, Loveit Coverit was able to estimate the prevalence of phone thefts across every London lower layer super output area (LSOA). They then compared these figures with the latest census to determine each area’s phone theft rate per 1,000 residents.

Top 10 places you’re most likely to have your phone stolen

The place where your phone is most likely to be stolen in London is Westminster, with a staggering 18,845 estimated phone thefts, resulting in an alarmingly high phone theft rate of 92.29 per 1,000 residents.

The City of London follows closely, with 213 estimated phone thefts, resulting in a phone theft rate of 24.77 per 1,000 residents.

Camden also stands out as an area with a high risk of phone theft, with 4,813 estimated phone thefts, resulting in a phone theft rate of 22.91 per 1,000 residents. Southwark follows suit with 3,871 estimated phone thefts, resulting in a phone theft rate of 12.58 per 1,000 residents.

In Kensington and Chelsea, there were 1,678 estimated phone thefts, resulting in a phone theft rate of 11.70 per 1,000 residents. Islington records 2,155 estimated phone thefts, resulting in a phone theft rate of 9.95 per 1,000 residents. 

Hackney follows closely with 2,470 estimated phone thefts, resulting in a phone theft rate of 9.53 per 1,000 residents. Lambeth experiences 2,394 estimated phone thefts, resulting in a phone theft rate of 7.54 per 1,000 residents.

Newham has 2,570 estimated phone thefts, resulting in a phone theft rate of 7.32 per 1,000 residents. Lastly, Tower Hamlets rounds out the list with 2,027 estimated phone thefts, resulting in a phone theft rate of 6.53 per 1,000 residents.

Top 10 places your phone is least likely to be stolen

The place where your phone is least likely to be stolen in London is Bexley, with only 135 estimated phone thefts, resulting in an impressively low phone theft rate of 0.55 per 1,000 residents. 

Following closely is Richmond upon Thames, with 148 estimated phone thefts, resulting in a phone theft rate of 0.76 per 1,000 residents. 

Merton also stands out as an area with a low risk of phone theft, with 200 estimated phone thefts, resulting in a phone theft rate of 0.93 per 1,000 residents.

Sutton follows suit with 201 estimated phone thefts, resulting in a phone theft rate of 0.96 per 1,000 residents. In Bromley there were 368 estimated phone thefts, resulting in a phone theft rate of 1.12 per 1,000 residents.

Hillingdon experiences 342 estimated phone thefts, resulting in a phone theft rate of 1.12 per 1,000 residents. Havering records 308 estimated phone thefts, resulting in a phone theft rate of 1.18 per 1,000 residents. 

Croydon has 510 estimated phone thefts, resulting in a phone theft rate of 1.31 per 1,000 residents. Hounslow follows with 424 estimated phone thefts, resulting in a phone theft rate of 1.47 per 1,000 residents.

Lastly, Harrow rounds out the list with 389 estimated phone thefts, resulting in a phone theft rate of 1.49 per 1,000 residents. 

A spokesperson from Loveit Coverit commented, “To put these figures in perspective, the average phone theft rate of LSOA areas in London is 7.60. While some areas may boast lower rates, it’s important for individuals to remain vigilant regardless of their location.” 

He continued, “There are several proactive steps individuals can take to reduce the risk of falling victim to phone theft. Firstly, always keep your phone secure by using features such as passcodes, fingerprint or facial recognition, and encryption. Additionally, be mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded or unfamiliar areas where thieves may target unsuspecting individuals. Avoid leaving your phone unattended in public places and consider investing in anti-theft accessories such as phone cases with wrist straps or tracking devices. It’s also advisable to register your device with the manufacturer and enable remote locking and wiping features to protect your personal data in case of theft.” 

They surmised, “Lastly, make sure to report any incidents of theft to the authorities promptly and consider purchasing comprehensive phone insurance to provide financial protection in the event of loss or theft. By implementing these practical tips and remaining vigilant, individuals can significantly reduce the likelihood of experiencing the inconvenience and distress associated with phone theft.”