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Apple, London Police Tackle iPhone Theft with Data-Sharing Partnership
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Apple, London Police Tackle iPhone Theft with Data-Sharing Partnership

WireByte Staff · June 11, 2026

Apple is collaborating with London's Metropolitan Police to combat iPhone theft, sharing data to measure the effectiveness of anti-theft protections. The partnership has led to significant successes, with police cracking down on thieves using e-bikes and scooters. The initiative aims to reduce the value of stolen iPhones, making them less appealing to thieves.

Key points

  • Apple is working with London's Metropolitan Police to tackle iPhone theft through a data-sharing partnership.
  • The partnership includes sharing data to measure the effectiveness of Apple's anti-theft protections, such as Activation Lock and Stolen Device Protection.
  • London's police service has been carrying out a major crackdown on smartphone theft, including aggressive action against thieves using e-bikes and scooters.
  • The partnership enables Apple to get real-world feedback on its protections and make improvements where needed.
  • The Metropolitan Police has started sharing data with Apple to build a 'global picture' of stolen handsets, including reconnection to a network.

Apple, London Police Tackle iPhone Theft with Data-Sharing Partnership

Apple is collaborating with London's Metropolitan Police to combat iPhone theft, sharing data to measure the effectiveness of anti-theft protections. The partnership has led to significant successes, with police cracking down on thieves using e-bikes and scooters.

The initiative aims to reduce the value of stolen iPhones, making them less appealing to thieves. Apple has introduced various measures, including Activation Lock and Stolen Device Protection, to prevent reactivation and access to personal data. In parallel, London's police service has been carrying out a major crackdown on smartphone theft, including aggressive action against thieves.

The partnership enables Apple to get real-world feedback on its protections and make improvements where needed. The Metropolitan Police has started sharing data with Apple to build a 'global picture' of stolen handsets, including reconnection to a network.

Sources

WireByte Staff — Editorial Team

The WireByte editorial team synthesises technology news from multiple primary sources, verifies the facts, and links every source. Articles are produced with AI assistance and reviewed under our editorial policy.