From a police perspective: Protect your devices

This month, Sgt David Lonsdale explains how best to protect our invaluable devices from theft.

Your mobile is so much more than a phone. It’s your phone book, internet, email, social media, maps, personal banker, camera, photo library and weather forecaster.

That’s why we strongly advise you to read on, to see how you can prevent yourself from being a victim of mobile theft.

• Don’t leave your phone, iPad, tablet or camera unattended, out of your sight or left on a table – thieves can grab a phone in seconds.

• Always be aware of your mobile and your whereabouts, act accordingly and when you’ve finished using it, put it away.

• Ensure you retain a record of your phone’s IMEI number. This is a 15-digit unique number which can be obtained by keying in *#06#. You need this information if the phone is lost or stolen. And don’t keep a note of it on your phone as it defeats the object.

• Use your device’s security features, apps or PIN locking mechanisms to protect your data and prevent the phone being used if stolen.

• Register for free on an accredited mobile phone database such as Immobilise.

This helps police to identify you as the rightful owner. This is a free web-based, secure property registration system. It is endorsed and searchable by all 43 UK Police Forces. Fill in the online form and create your own account – you will receive an email from Immobilise confirming your account name and password.

• Track it. Consider installing a tracker app on your smartphone. They’re readily available online.

Community priorities
Throughout last month, staff from Goole Communities Team continued with high visibility reassurance patrols in Goole town centre and Old Goole to deter potential anti-social behaviour as well as monitoring ‘no drinking zone’ areas. Other areas the communities team focused on were Five Rivers, Jackson Street and Carter Street, where anyone caught engaging in such activities will be dealt with jointly by the police and East Riding Council. The police will continue to monitor these areas this month with the aim of preventing such activity.