The home insurance provider has therefore provided seven top tips to curb criminals
Theft claims are up by 171% this summer – therefore, home insurance provider Urban Jungle is encouraging city workers to keep an eye on their personal belongings as people begin to socialise again post-lockdown.
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More specifically, the insurer reported a surge in laptop thefts – up by 100% in June and July, compared to March and April this year.
Mobile theft also triggered an uplift in claims, with a 143% increase in the same two-month summer period.
These figures are based on Urban Jungle’s claims data.
Urban Jungle co-founder and chief executive Jimmy Williams said: “It’s brilliant being able to get back to our social lives after being cooped up for so long, but we all need to watch out for our belongings.
“Many of us have taken up flexible working, which means we’re taking items like phones and laptops out and about much more than we used to - and with thefts on the rise, we need to take extra steps to keep them safe.
“We hope our simple tips can help people enjoy the social events and real world variety we all thoroughly deserve.”
Top tips
According to the Office for National Statistics, 85% of working adults currently homeworking want to take a hybrid approach to their working routines in the future (June 2021).
Urban Jungle’s top tips to combat theft are:
- Avoid open style bags: Tote bags may be fashionable, but look for options with interior zips and buckles. Keeping bags fully closed and secure at all times can prevent valuables catching the eye of opportunistic thieves.
- Share the responsibility: If out with friends and worried about bag security, let somebody within the party know. If other people are aware of what an individual’s bag looks like and that it contains valuables, they can help keep an eye out.
- Stay subtle with logos: Avoid using branded cases designed for laptops and other computer products as this helps publicise them. Consider using an inner lining or tote bag within your main bag to take your laptop out and about.
- Talk to employers: If worried about carrying work equipment when out and about, staff can ask their employer to consider storage facilities, such as lockers, that can be easily integrated into the office to keep valuables safe.
- Ensure that valuables are protected in and out of the home with contents insurance: Urban Jungle, for example, offers contents insurance policies from £7 per month that cover the theft of valuables both in and out of the home.
- Keep track with technology: Individuals should consider being proactive and downloading software that can help locate their phone or laptop in the case of theft or loss.
- Keep kit nearby: When working in public areas, like cafes and bars, don’t get comfortable and assume the staff or nearby people will keep an eye on belongings.
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