London Gang's New Bank Account Theft Tactic: Police Issue Urgent Warning

London Gang Empties Bank Accounts Using Stolen Phones: Police Issue Urgent Warning A new gang tactic targeting bank accounts has emerged in London, prompting a warning from the Metropolitan Police. Criminals are stealing unlocked smartphones to access banking apps and transfer funds. The Met Police released CCTV footage showing the crime in action. One recent incident outside a Soho bar involved four men working together to steal a phone and withdraw £35,000 from various accounts. "They can change the passcode and cause financial havoc," explains an LBC news presenter. The presenter urges the public to enable security features like 'Stolen Device Protection' to prevent similar incidents. This feature triggers a phone lock when the device is in an unfamiliar location, adding another layer of security. The gang responsible for this particular tactic was eventually apprehended and sentenced to prison terms ranging from 33 months to 24 months, with additional suspended sentences. However, the police are worried that others will copy this technique. The Met Police's advice to the public is to turn on the ‘Stolen Device’ or ‘Anti-Theft’ protection features available on most smartphones. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of mobile security and the potential consequences of neglecting basic security measures. The police continue to investigate similar incidents and encourage anyone who believes they've been a victim to report it immediately.