Massachusetts police warning community about cell phone theft scheme at nightclubs, bars

The Boston Police Department is alerting the community about a series of recent cell phone thefts occurring after individuals leave nightclubs and bars in the city. These incidents have been reported in the Downtown, Back Bay, Fenway, and Seaport areas, primarily between the hours of 11:30 PM and 2:00 AM.

Current tactics utilized by suspect have included – stealing phones during or after ride shares, offering unsolicited rides, and utilizing physical or verbal threats or violence against victims. In previous cases, suspects pickpocketed victims, “shoulder surfed” to observe and steal passcodes, asked to borrow phones to make a call or to exchange contact or social media info, or offered to take photos or videos for victims.

Once in possession of the phone, suspects have accessed sensitive information and made unauthorized transactions using financial apps. Targets have included Apple ID accounts, Apple Pay, Venmo, Cash App, PayPal, cryptocurrency wallets, and sports betting apps like DraftKings. In several cases, credit and debit cards have also been used fraudulently.

The Boston Police urge all residents and visitors to remain vigilant, protect their devices with strong security settings, and avoid handing their phones to strangers under any circumstances.

Community members who wish to provide information anonymously may do so through the CrimeStoppers Tip Line:

By Phone: 1-800-494-TIPS

By Text: Text “TIP” to CRIME (27463)

Online: Submit a Tip via https://police.boston.gov/crimestoppers/

Photos and videos related to the investigation can also be submitted anonymously via CrimeStoppers. The Boston Police Department strictly protects the identities of those who assist in investigations anonymously.