The Met has launched its “Be Safe” initiative in Camden’s Vodafone store, and are encouraging the public to use their phone to help protect themselves against theft.

The campaign, which was launched on Monday, urges people to be aware when they’re making a call, as it gives moped muggers prime opportunity to swipe their phone.

The Met are also urging people to activate their phone’s security features and register it with the UK national property register, Immobilise.

Moped thieves also target watches, handbags and other valuable items.

Efforts by police has led to a 56per cent reduction in moped crime, from 3463 to 1508.

Assistant Commissioner Martin Hewitt, Frontline Policing, said: “Moped criminals are ruthless in their attempts to steal mobile phones. They speed up on pedestrians who are using phones and snatch them as they ride past. It happens in an instant and is very distressing for the victim.”