SquareTrade's 2025 analysis of 12 European markets shows that the UK accounts for 39% of all smartphone thefts, up 21% compared to last year, making it the leading country in the number of lost devices in Europe.
This increase is especially noteworthy during the summer months and major events such as festivals, in which London is the hardest hit area. Statistics show that London accounts for 42% of all phone thefts in the UK, followed by Ilford and Birmingham.
SquareTrade revealed that 80% of stolen devices are iPhones, with the most commonly stolen iPhone 15 Pro Max, followed by the iPhone 16 Pro Max and Galaxy S24 Ultra.
Kevin Gillan, CEO of SquareTrade Europe, said that in addition to phones, thieves also target users' digital identities, which could "led to bank accounts being withdrawn, emails being hacked and long-term financial losses".
According to Mobiwordlive, US-based insurance company Allstate has acquired SquareTrade. The company in Europe has provided mobile phone protection services by collaborating with carrier providers that provide insurance packages at device points of sale. The insurance packages start with accident damage insurance and then expand to loss and theft insurance packages.
According to a report previously conducted by SquareTrade- authorized and The Future Laboratory, 72% of UK consumers do not have insurance for their mobile devices. Of the insured, only 18% know what their policies cover.
With a lost and stolen insurance policy, Kevin Gillan said that SquareTrade can often exchange phones within a day thanks to a supply chain across Europe. Customers will receive a replacement phone of the same model.
