Thieves Hilariously Turning Down Android Devices Amid Rising Smartphone Theft in the UK

In an unexpected twist, thieves in the UK are reportedly returning stolen Android devices, specifically Samsung smartphones, to their owners, much to the surprise of victims. This strange trend has sparked conversation across the nation, as it appears that some criminals now prefer the higher resale value of iPhones over Android devices, leaving Samsung owners with their stolen phones in hand.

While the stereotype of Android being less valuable than iPhones is an old one, recent incidents highlight that it’s now influencing criminal behavior in surprising ways.

Rising Smartphone Thefts in the UK

Smartphone thefts are on the rise in the UK. According to the Metropolitan Police in London, a staggering 117,211 mobile devices were stolen in 2024—a notable increase from the previous year. Although the police don’t track the specific models of phones targeted, various reports have surfaced offering insights into what thieves are really after.

A feature in The London Centric reveals some curious behavior from thieves who seem to be passing over Android devices in favor of more profitable iPhones. The trend has left several victims scratching their heads as their stolen phones are mysteriously returned.

Thieves Don’t Want Samsungs

One of the more bizarre incidents comes from a Londoner named Sam, who was pickpocketed by a group of eight men. Among the items stolen were his Samsung phone, his camera, and even his beanie. However, in a surprising twist, one of the thieves handed Sam his Samsung device back before walking off, saying, “Don’t want no Samsung.”

In another incident, a man named Mark had his Samsung Galaxy snatched by a thief on an e-bike. While Mark gave chase, the thief stopped, glanced at the phone, and then tossed it aside on the street. Mark, feeling “a bit rejected,” retrieved his phone, which thankfully remained undamaged.

These incidents reflect an emerging trend where Android phones—especially Samsung models—are seen as less desirable by criminals, possibly due to their lower resale value when compared to iPhones. The reasoning behind these actions is relatively simple: iPhones fetch higher prices on the secondhand market, making them the more lucrative target for thieves.

Why Thieves Prefer iPhones

Experts believe the rising preference for iPhones is tied to their higher secondhand market value. Jake Moore, a cybersecurity analyst at ESET, explained that iPhones are much more valuable in resale markets, making them more appealing to thieves. “Apple devices have a higher secondhand market value, and it makes more economic sense to pursue these more sought-after phones rather than cheaper models with a lower secondhand price,” Moore stated.

It’s not just the resale price that makes iPhones attractive to criminals. Their reputation for being high-end and coveted devices makes them a status symbol in some circles. The market for secondhand iPhones is well-established, and stolen devices are often quickly resold or dismantled for parts, making them an ideal target for criminals looking to make a quick profit.

What to Do if Your Android Device is Stolen

While it’s clear that iPhones are the primary targets of thieves, Android users aren’t entirely off the hook. If your Android device is stolen, there are still steps you can take to protect your personal information and minimize the damage.

Modern Android phones come equipped with increasingly sophisticated anti-theft features. For instance, Google’s Theft Detection Lock can automatically lock your device if the phone’s accelerometer detects suspicious movement, such as being snatched from a speeding bike. Additionally, Android’s Remote Lock feature allows you to lock your device remotely in case of theft, ensuring that your data remains protected.

In addition to these built-in features, it’s a good idea to enable Find My Device, which can help you track the location of your phone and remotely wipe your data if necessary. These tools make it easier to protect sensitive information, even if you don’t recover your phone.

Conclusion: A New Reality in Smartphone Theft

As smartphone theft continues to rise across the UK, it’s becoming clear that thieves are becoming more discerning in their choice of targets. With iPhones holding higher resale value, it seems they have become the device of choice for criminals, while Android phones like Samsung are being left behind.

For Android users, this isn’t an excuse to relax—rather, it’s a reminder of the importance of using robust security measures. As technology advances, so too do the methods used by criminals, and it’s up to device owners to stay one step ahead. By leveraging built-in anti-theft features and being vigilant, Android users can ensure their phones remain as safe as possible, even in an increasingly perilous world of smartphone theft.