HomeMy WebLinkAbout14-03-28 Cellular Phone Safety Tips
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BAKERSFIELD POLICE
DEPARTMENT
PRESS RELEASE
Greg Williamson, Chief of Police
Contact: Sergeant Joe Grubbs
Public Information Officer
661-326-3803
jgrubbs@bakersfieldpd.us
For Immediate Release March 28, 2014
The Bakersfield Police Department would like to inform the public of a recent crime
trend in order to utilize preventative strategies to combat the issue.
Since January 2014, there have been more than 30 thefts or robberies involving cellular
phones.
The Bakersfield Police Department Crime Prevention Detail recommends utilizing the
following crime prevention measures to lessen your chance of becoming a victim of theft
or robbery:
Utilize a password/passcode on your phone
Keep your cellular phone’s serial number and I.M.E.I. number (International
Mobile Station Equipment Identity) in a safe place to relay to law enforcement if
your phone is stolen
If you own a smartphone, install an application that will allow you to locate your
phone if it is lost or stolen
Be careful when buying or selling a cellular phone online. If you are purchasing
or selling a phone from an unknown person, meet in a public place or business,
preferably one with video surveillance cameras. Do not conduct transactions in
the parking lots. Bring a friend with you.
If you plan on selling your phone, do not reset the phone until after you receive
the money from the buyer, as to prevent becoming the victim of a robbery and to
give law enforcement the opportunity to track the phone.
When walking in public, it is important to be aware of your surroundings. Keep
electronic devices concealed. If you can, walk with friends, so as not to be alone.
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Make eye contact with those you pass by, in order to give an excellent suspect
description if necessary.
Do not hand your phone over for anyone to borrow.
Anyone with information regarding this case is encouraged to call the Bakersfield Police
Department at (661) 327-7111.
You can now send an anonymous text message to the Bakersfield Police Department. It’s quick and it’s easy.
Simply enter 274637 into your phone and text BPDCRIMES along with your message. The text is sent to the
police department and the sender remains completely anonymous.
Tips can also be anonymously sent through the smartphone “TipSubmit” mobile App or via email at
https://www.tipsubmit.com.