LASD: 8 Safety Tips to Reduce Cellphone Theft

With a noticable spike in cellphone thefts in Los Angeles County and throughout the nation, the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department has issued some tips intended to help reduce cellphone thefts.

• Use the security lock code or PIN to lock the information in your phone;
• Save the serial number;
• Don't store secrets in your phone;
• Activate the Global Positioning System in the cellphone. After-market software is available for purchase if the cellphone does not include one;
• Avoid distracted walking and talking because that's often when cellphones are stolen;
• Put the cellphone away in a place it is not visible when you are eating;
• If your phone is stolen, find another phone to use to report the theft to law enforcement;
• Be a good witness. If you see the suspect, don't try to get it back. Note the vehicle license, color and model and last known direction of travel.