Thames Valley Police logo

CAUTION

Thames Valley Police has seen an increase in bag dipping and mobile phone thefts in Oxford in recent weeks and would like to raise awareness and encourage visitors to the city to take some practical steps to avoid becoming a victim of theft.  Please share these tips with your friends and family.

Surroundings

  • Be aware of your surroundings; remain alert – especially in crowded areas and tourists hotspots
  • Thieves vary their tactics based on the location and the density of the crowd
  • Be cautious of people trying to distract you – it’s a common tactic used by thieves and they don’t always operate alone
Man stealing wallet from a bag
Wallet stolen from backpack

Protect your belongings

  • Keep bags and rucksacks closed or zipped up at all times
  • Carry bags in front of you or diagonally across your chest where possible
  • Conceal purses and wallets in inside pockets
  • Do not hang your bag on the back of a chair or out of sight on the floor
  • Do not leave your bag unattended in a shopping trolley/basket or on the back of a pushchair

Cash

  • Be extra careful when using cash machines – make sure no one is loitering too close
  • Do not withdraw more cash than you need, only take out what is necessary
  • Wear a money belt if you are carrying a large amount of cash
  • Never place your wallet in the back of your trousers/jeans
  • Do not count your money in the middle of the street
Man counting cash in street
Phone stolen from table

Mobile Phones

  • Never place your phone in the back pocket of your jeans or on a table when not in use. Keep all your values out of public view
  • Keep a record of your IMEI number (this can be obtained by pressing *#06#)
  • Use your phone’s inbuilt security devices such as SIM locking and PIN locking mechanisms

Where to report

If you have been a victim of this crime, we recommend you follow these steps as soon as you become aware:

  • Report to the Police – report via 101 or online at: www.thamesvalley.police.uk
    • Only use 999 in a real emergency
  • Notify your bank immediately and cancel your credit and debit cards
  • Inform your insurance company if you have insurance that covers theft (you will need a crime reference number from the police)
  • Notify the relevant authorities if your ID/passport and other important documents have been stolen
  • Monitor your bank and credit card transactions for any suspicious activity
  • Check tracking devices to locate where your property has gone (if tracking enabled)
Bag thief