It's one of the fastest-growing crimes in the city and the Burnaby RCMP are hoping that people will be extra careful with their smartphones.
According to a Burnaby RCMP press release, there has been an increase in personal robberies where 40 per cent of victims are being targeted for their smartphones.
In comparison, since 2010, financial institutions and business-related robberies have dropped.
Cpl. Brenda Gresiuk offers some crime prevention tips for people to protect themselves:
* Be cautious when using online shopping sites such as Craigslist and Kijiji. Criminals use these sites to post smartphones such as Iphones and Blackberrys for sale, and then lure unsuspecting victims to isolated areas to commit the robbery.
* Don't lend your phone to anyone. Criminals may pose as victims in need of making an emergency phone call and then run off with the phone. Offer to make the emergency call on their behalf.
* Be aware of your surroundings. Victims using their phones in public places are being targeted by criminals. Criminals then follow them away from the crowd before committing the offence.
* You should record the phone's serial number, the international mobile equipment identity number of your phone and the SIM card serial number. Keep this important information in a safe place at home.
* Download free apps such as "Find my Iphone" and never leave your phone unattended. Do not store personal information such as passwords and banking information on your phone.
If you are confronted or threatened for your phone, do not challenge the criminal and immediately report the incident to the police.
You should report a stolen or lost phone to the police and your cellphone service provider immediately.
If the theft just occurred, call 911. Lost or stolen phones should be reported to the non-emergency main Burnaby detachment number at 604-294-7922 or you may file a report in person at any of the city's community policing offices.
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