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Concert Chaos: Phones Vanish in Brooklyn's Mosh Pits
2 Feb
Summary
- Dozens of concertgoers reported phone theft during live shows.
- Thieves target crowded concerts, selling phones for up to $5,000.
- UK police disrupted a network sending 40,000 stolen phones to China.
Live music events in New York have become hotspots for phone theft, with dozens of concertgoers reporting their devices stolen recently. Attendees at venues like the Brooklyn Paramount have fallen victim to opportunistic thieves who exploit crowded conditions. Such thefts are particularly prevalent at energetic shows, including metal and EDM concerts, where the close proximity of fans makes pickpocketing easier.
These stolen phones, especially iPhones, are highly valuable in markets like China, where they can be sold for as much as $5,000. Cybersecurity experts note that even password-protected phones can be vulnerable. This growing problem is not isolated to New York; London's Metropolitan Police recently disrupted a criminal network responsible for sending approximately 40,000 stolen phones to China over a 12-month period.
Venue operators and concertgoers in New York have acknowledged a noticeable increase in these thefts. Online forums and venue communications have raised awareness among patrons about securing their belongings. While security measures are being enhanced, the NYPD has not provided specific details on ongoing investigations into these concert-related thefts.
