GENEVA, Switzerland – Geneva is the Swiss canton where residents are most likely to report a stolen phone, with incidents surging 58% in the summer months.
Thieves are particularly active during warmer weather, targeting phones left in back pockets or unattended spots. Between 2020 and 2024, one in 191 insured individuals in Geneva reported a phone theft, nearly double the national average.
The city’s police recorded 2,386 mobile phone thefts in 2024, a 4% decrease from the previous year. These figures encompass various types of theft, including pickpocketing and burglaries.
### Summer Surge in Smartphone Thefts
Summer sees a significant uptick in phone thefts across Switzerland, with a reported 58% increase in July and August compared to other months. This trend is attributed to more people being outdoors and attending public events like festivals, which create opportune moments for thieves.
“In summer, people enjoy good weather. Thieves are thus more likely to strike, especially during large rallies such as street festivals or festivals,” explained Stefan Müller, an AXA manager.
### A “Röstigraben” of Theft
The statistics reveal a notable divide in phone theft rates across Switzerland, with French-speaking cantons experiencing higher numbers. Geneva leads the pack, followed by Basel-Ville, Neuchâtel (0.43%), Vaud (0.37%), and Fribourg (0.31%). Notably, only one of the top five cantons for phone theft is German-speaking, highlighting a cultural divide in this type of crime.
The Geneva cantonal police reported 2,386 phone thefts in 2024, a slight decrease from the prior year. Léna Keller, a spokesperson for the police, noted that while overall burglaries are down, phone thefts themselves show a seasonal pattern, peaking in summer. Most thefts in 2024 occurred in the street, on public transport, and within vehicles.
### How to Avoid Losing Your Phone
To protect against theft, authorities advise keeping phones secure. “Always keep your phone under surveillance,” recommended Léna Keller. Avoid placing phones on restaurant tables or leaving them exposed in back pockets. When carrying a phone in a bag, opt for one with a secure closure and ensure it remains zipped.
If your phone is stolen and geolocation is enabled, the police can be contacted at 117 to dispatch patrols, depending on officer availability.
### Do Not Intervene
Victims are strongly advised against attempting to recover their stolen phones themselves. “Such an approach can represent a risk for one’s security in the event of confrontation with the author,” Keller warned. If geolocation was not active, report the theft to the police to file a complaint and process an insurance claim.
- Geneva reports the highest number of phone thefts in Switzerland.
- Smartphone thefts increase by 58% during the summer months.
- Geneva police recorded 2,386 phone thefts in 2024.
- Pickpockets commonly target rear pockets and unattended belongings.
