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���߲ݴ�ý Release - Public Safety Alert, Cell Phone Thefts

— Toronto Police (@TorontoPolice)

According to Toronto police, complaints about cellphone thefts at various locations during public festivals have jumped in both May and June.

The thieves, say police, are stealing the mobile phones from bags, backpacks, pockets and purses, as well as when victims momentarily leave their device unattended.

In some cases, police say the suspects removed cellphones from zipped-closed purses and bag pockets.

“Police are requesting members of the public be mindful of their cellphones when out enjoying public events, concerts, parades, festivals, and any crowded public spaces throughout the summer,” said the Toronto force.

Police are suggesting the public “stay alert” when attending festivals or large events and to ensure your phone and other valuables are never out of sight and always secured.

It’s also advised by police to avoid placing cellphones in a back pocket where a thief can easily grab it.

What thieves look for

The Toronto Police Service provides information for protecting yourself from various crimes on its — the information is applicable whether you’re in Toronto or elsewhere.

Regarding protecting yourself from petty theft, the Toronto police page says thieves look for the following things:

• Easy pickings — Items that are left unattended in shopping carts, dressing rooms or desks, as well as wallets protruding from pockets and purses are targets.

• Crowds — The noise and confusion of a crowd helps conceal crime, and people should be especially vigilant when in a crowd.

• Distraction — When people are distracted, they’re less likely to be able to remember what the thief looks like and could be unaware a theft has occurred until much later. Thieves will also cause a distraction or target you if you appear preoccupied.

• Clutter — Police suggest people carry only what they need and should consider clothing with hidden pockets.

• Purses/bags — People are advised not to bring a purse if they don’t need it or are going where they can’t properly care for it. When you do have it with you, keep it zipped shut and carry it close to you with an arm across it.

• Backpacks — People are advised to keep their backpack zipped closed and check it periodically. When in a crowd or on public transit, bring your backpack to your front and keep an arm over it.

• Earphones — Thieves look for high-end electronics by paying attention to brand-name earphones. Police advise you limit their use or to use a generic pair when travelling through public places or on transit. Additionally, when you are listening to your headphones, you’re less likely to be able to keep yourself safe.

The Toronto police has other advice on its

Travelling tips

The Canadian government provides a host of information for protecting yourself from petty crimes such as pickpocketing when travelling. The tips are useful whether you’re abroad or not.

To avoid becoming a victim, the Canadian government recommends:

• Be suspicious of strangers approaching you, such as street vendors.

• Avoid showing signs of affluence such as flashy jewelry, cellphones, and headphones.

• Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times.

• Keep your bag between your feet in public places and in front of you on public transportation.

• Don’t leave purses or backpacks containing valuables in overhead compartments of long-distance buses.

• Always ask restaurants and bars to bring the credit card machine to your table or bring your card to the machine.

• Avoid packing valuables in checked luggage because organized groups are known to operate at airports searching for electronics and valuables.

The government says common theft scams include:

• Distracting the victim by asking questions while another person carries out the theft.

• Spraying a substance on victims and then stealing from them while pretending to help clean the stain.

• Putting merchandise such as dishcloths or socks on top of your phone at restaurants and picking up your phone along with the merchandise.

• Placing items on your windshield at traffic intersections to get you to roll down your window or to see what’s in your vehicle.

People are also being advised that thefts commonly occur in:

• Popular tourist areas.

• Transportation terminals, including bus terminals, train stations, cruise and ferry terminals, airports and subways.

• Hotel lobbies.

• Restaurants and bars, including patios.

Reporting a crime

Victims of crime, such as theft, are advised to report it to police by calling the local police department on a non-emergency number. In an emergency, call 911.

You can also report crime anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).