Here’s why you should never put your phone on the table when out in Sheffield

In Sheffield and beyond, phones left on tables at bars and restaurants have become common target for thieves. After having my phone stolen from right in front of me in The Cavendish on West Street, I wanted to find out if I had fallen victim to a one-off thief or if there was a bigger scam happening on my doorstep. Turns out, it's the latter.

What's the problem?

Walk into any pub or restaurant table in Sheffield and you'll see nearly every table littered with phones, even if they aren't being used at the time. Most people like having their phone within sight to check messages or take a spontaneous photo, but the problem is that your phone then becomes a sitting target for any potential thief. Government guidelines even instruct that "if you're out with your friends, don't put your phone on a table as anyone walking by can easily run off with it".

What's happening?

The scam might start with someone coming up to your table seemingly to hand out a leaflet, booklet or similar. However, they will then use this item to either distract your attention while they take your phone off the table, or in some cases they will place the leaflet over your phone and take it using slight of hand. Alternatively, they might just discreetly take it off the table when you aren't noticing, or distract you by dropping something to take your eyes off the phone. Another friend living in Sheffield told me that the manager of a local pub had come up to them and said to take their phones off the table, as it was so common for scammers to simply pick them up as they walk past.

Is it just phone theft?

Last year, Sheffield newspapers reported an increase in crime in the student areas of Crookes, Crookesmore, Ecclesall, and Walkley, with the latter having a 26.5 per cent increase in crime year on year. The University of Sheffield is obviously aware of the problem, given their launch of the Thieves Inc campaign last year, a student focused safety and security project. The campaign included the creation of various films with the aim of raising awareness about opportunistic theft, cycle theft and phone theft including the importance of registering your phone, IMEI numbers and having a passcode. I didn't have a passcode on my phone and severely regretted it, especially as I had a mobile banking app. Fortunately, I did have insurance and now have a passcode and other security measures set up on my new phone, as the experience of having mine stolen made me feel incredibly vulnerable and threatened.

What can I do to help prevent my stuff being stolen?

If you're worried about having your belongings stolen in Sheffield, the best thing to do is to always be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables out of sight from potential thieves. Make sure you always have as much security on your phone and bag as possible, such as passcodes and padlocks. Never keep your phone or wallet in a back pocket or an exposed bag compartment, and don't leave them on the table in bars and restaurants.

If you've been a victim of crime in South Yorkshire, take a look at this website to find out who to contact.