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PEDESTRIANS in London’s top shopping district are being warned to get off their phones by giant signs painted on the street – after theft rates soared to record highs.
Electrical retailer Currys painted purple lines along Oxford Street to remind shoppers to step back from the kerb and keep their mobiles hidden from e-bike thieves.
The move is modelled on the Tube’s iconic yellow “mind the gap” lines.
It is part of a campaign to help drive down phone thefts on packed high streets.
We revealed earlier this year how a phone was stolen on average every seven minutes in the capital last year.
The thefts usually involve criminals on mopeds snatching phones straight from people’s hands on busy pavements before speeding off.
New anti-theft signage will also be installed on Oxford Street – the home of Marks and Spencer’s and Adidas’ flagship stores – as part of the ‘Mind the Grab’ campaign.
It has been backed by Westminster Council, the Metropolitan Police, and the charity Crimestoppers.
Ed Connolly, the chief commercial officer at Currys, said: “Phone theft isn’t just about losing a device. It’s frightening, invasive, and cuts people off from their loved ones, their money, and their daily lives.
“Enough is enough. It’s time to draw the line on phone theft (with) a bold pavement marking we believe can make a real difference by encouraging people to step back from the kerb.”
Westminster Council has granted permission for the study to be tried on one of the capital’s busiest streets.
Deputy leader Aicha Less said: “This campaign is a great example of how we are working with partners to raise awareness about phone thefts and promote simple measures to stay safe in public spaces, such as keeping valuables out of sight and planning routes home in advance.”
