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MBTA ‘Apple Picking:’ Transit Police warn of electronic theft [VIDEO] – Metro US

MBTA ‘Apple Picking:’ Transit Police warn of electronic theft [VIDEO]

Transit Police sent out a warning today to riders: hide or hold on to your electronics in the MBTA.

Of the 20 robberies this month, 13 have involved the theft or attempted theft of either an iPhone or Samsung Galaxy, according to Transit Police. Earlier this week, Metro reported an incident in which a Dorchester woman slapped an iPhone out of a man’s hand on the Red Line, then fought him for it.

Some tips offered to MBTA customers include:

  1. Avoid cell phone use while on the T, unless reporting an emergency
  2. Conceal expensive electronics
  3. Use ear plugs that are any color except white
  4. Hold off on listening to music via iPod or iPhone
  5. Be on alert for staged distractions
  6. Most robberies of electronic devices happen near the train doors

“Public awareness campaigns are an invaluable tool in our goal to reduce thefts of iPhones and other electronic devices on the MBTA. Enforcement alone will not work, we need to remind our MBTA community they can take definitive steps to guard themselves from being victimized,” Transit Police Chief Paul MacMillan said in a statement today.

Enjoy this PSA produced by the NYPD: