Tips to keep you and your phone safe wherever you are

As part of our LET'S TALK series, we're creating spaces for open and informal conversations about staying safe; whether that's in your accommodation, on campus, or on a night out.

Our Safety in Halls drop-in sessions bring together local police, fire services, and University teams so you can:

• Get to know the support available
• Understand what to do in different situations
• Ask questions (or just listen) in a relaxed setting

Phone safety often comes up in these conversations, especially around nights out and busy areas, so we've pulled together some practical guidance to help keep you and your phone safe.

Using your phone on a night out

Your phone helps you navigate, stay in touch, get home safely, and access important services. At the same time, phones are a common target for theft, particularly when they're visible or someone is distracted.

Here's how to use your phone in a way that helps keep you safe too.

Before going out

• Fully charge your phone
• Save key contacts (like friends or emergency services) so they're easy to reach

While you're out

• Try not to walk while focussed on your screen, especially in busy or unfamiliar areas
• Avoid holding your phone out for long periods, snatch thefts can happen very quickly
• Keep your phone in a secure pocket or zipped bag when you're not using it

Use built-in safety features

• Share your live location with someone you trust, in case plans change or you get separated
• Make sure your phone is protected with Face ID, fingerprint recognition, or a strong passcode

If your phone is stolen

If your phone is taken, whether on campus or on a night out, it can feel stressful. Here's what to do next...

Step 1: Get somewhere safe

• Move to a safe, well-lit place
• Stay with friends or speak to venue staff if you need immediate help
• If you feel unsafe or at risk, ask someone to call 999

Step 2: Secure your phone remotely

Use another device (a friend's phone or a computer) to:

• Track, lock, or erase your phone using Find My iPhone or Find My Device
• Change passwords for important accounts linked to your phone, such as email, social media, and banking

Step 3: Protect your money

If you had banking apps or contactless payment methods on your phone:

• Contact your bank as soon as possible
• Ask them to freeze cards if needed and check for unusual activity

Step 4: Report the theft

Reporting helps protect you and others.

• Report online at www.hampshire.police.uk or call 101 (non-emergency) — if your phone is insured, you may need a crime reference number from the police in order to claim for a replacement
• If you would like to remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via crimestoppers-uk.org

You can help stop thieves from using or reselling your phone if you know your International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number. UK network operators can stop a stolen phone from working if they have this number.

Finding your IMEI

Your IMEI number is a unique 15-digit code used to identify your phone.

If you still have access to your phone:

• Dial *#06#

-or-

• Go to Settings -> About Phone

If you do not have access to your phone:

iPhone

• Sign in at appleid.apple.com
• Select Devices -> Choose your phone to view the IMEI

Android

• Visit google.com/settings/dashboard
• Select Devices -> Choose your phone

You may also find the IMEI on your mobile network account, contract paperwork, or original phone packaging.