Thieves Shun Samsung: The Phone Brand Criminals Don't Want

In London, a city that experienced over 100,000 reported mobile phone thefts in 2024, a curious phenomenon is unfolding. Instead of targeting all devices indiscriminately, some thieves are actively avoiding Samsung smartphones, even returning them or abandoning them after realizing their make. This selective avoidance is an unexpected twist in the city's crime landscape.

Reports indicate instances where stolen Samsung phones were promptly given back or discarded, with thieves expressing a disinterest in the brand. While official statistics on preferred stolen phone models are unavailable, speculation suggests that advanced security features, such as Samsung's Theft Detection Lock, might be acting as a significant deterrent.

This contrasts with the general expectation that thieves target devices with higher resale values, like iPhones. The reluctance to steal Samsung devices, possibly due to their built-in protection mechanisms, presents an intriguing development for both consumers and law enforcement in understanding modern theft patterns.