Smartphone thefts: summer is the riskiest season
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Cell phone thefts increased by 58% in July and August, according to insurer AXA. However, since 2015, these thefts have reportedly decreased by a good third.
According to figures recorded by AXA, the number of stolen smartphones increased by 58% in July and August compared to the rest of the year.
Summer is pickpockets' favorite season, according to statistics from AXA, one of Switzerland's leading insurers. In fact, the number of stolen smartphones increases by 58% in July and August compared to the rest of the year. "A significant proportion of these thefts occur during vacations abroad, where such an incident is even more annoying," explains Stefan Müller of AXA. But, according to the insurer, thefts also occur in Switzerland, especially in places with large crowds, such as festivals or other gatherings. The cantons with the most stolen phones are the French-speaking regions, notably Geneva, Neuchâtel, Vaud, and Fribourg. In German-speaking Switzerland, Basel stands out for its high rate.
Thefts are more frequent in French-speaking Switzerland, according to AXA.
There is some good news, however: according to AXA, thefts have declined year-over-year. They have dropped from 3,500 cases in 2015 to 2,200 in 2024. According to the insurer, this decline can be explained in particular by the Covid pandemic, with its restrictions on mobility and gatherings. Since 2022, however, AXA has observed a rise in the number of cases, but the level remains lower than before the health crisis. "We have no indication of the reasons," the insurer acknowledges.
However, the bill for her remains steep: around 2 million francs per year. "Current smartphones are significantly more expensive than they were ten years ago. As an insurer, we are clearly feeling this increase," explains Stefan Müller.
(msa)
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