iPhone Users Targeted by Thieves in This City, Rejecting Samsung

A recent rise in mobile phone thefts in London has revealed a peculiar trend: thieves are increasingly selective, favoring iPhones over Android devices. This phenomenon, dubbed “Apple picking,” highlights a growing preference among criminals for the higher resale value of Apple products. Victims have reported bizarre encounters where thieves not only reject Android phones but also return them after realizing their lack of value. As this trend unfolds, it raises questions about the safety of iPhone users in the city.

Victims Share Their Experiences

Mark, a London resident, recounted a shocking encounter with a thief on an e-bike. He described how the thief stopped, assessed his phone, and then discarded it on the ground before cycling away. “I saw him stop, look at my phone, then throw it on the floor,” Mark said, relieved that his device remained undamaged. However, he humorously noted that his ego took a hit, feeling somewhat rejected by the thief’s actions. This incident reflects a growing trend where thieves are not just stealing phones but are also making choices based on brand preference.

Unusual Returns: Thieves Handing Back Phones

Not all victims have been as fortunate as Mark. Sam, another Londoner, faced a more aggressive situation when he was attacked by a group of eight men outside a Royal Mail depot. After being assaulted and robbed, one of the attackers surprisingly returned Sam’s phone, stating, “Don’t want no Samsung,” before fleeing the scene. This incident underscores the financial motivations behind these thefts, as iPhones typically have a much higher resale value compared to most Android devices. Criminals are clearly aware of this disparity and are targeting iPhones to maximize their profits.

Android Users Find Unexpected Relief

The trend has not gone unnoticed by Android users, some of whom feel a sense of relief amid the chaos. Simon, another London local, shared his experience when a potential thief approached him, casually inquiring about Spotify. Believing he was speaking to a musician, Simon took out his Samsung Galaxy, only for the thief to lose interest and walk away. It was only later that Simon realized he had narrowly escaped a mugging. This incident highlights how Android users are becoming increasingly aware of the selective nature of thieves in the city.

The Growing Target on iPhones

While neither the Metropolitan Police nor City of London Police officially track thefts by device type, anecdotal evidence suggests a clear pattern: iPhone users are becoming prime targets in London’s escalating theft wave. As the trend of selective theft continues, it raises concerns for iPhone owners, who may need to take extra precautions to safeguard their devices. The ongoing situation reflects a broader issue of mobile phone theft in urban areas, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and security measures among users.


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