A clear peak in phone damage occurs in July – according to If’s statistics, the riskiest day for mobile phones is a Saturday in July. Photo: Tofros
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Mobile phone thefts and damage claims have decreased in Finland, but summer continues to see a seasonal spike, with Saturdays in July showing the highest risk, according to data from If Insurance.
If processes over 1,000 mobile phone damage claims every month. Claims reach their peak in July, with Saturdays in that month being the riskiest single days for mobile devices. Tuesdays remain the least risky day of the week.
Jori Schiestl, product manager for property insurance at If, said the decline in thefts began during the COVID-19 pandemic. “The number of thefts dropped sharply during the pandemic and has not returned to earlier levels,” he said.
The majority of phone thefts now occur outside Finland. “We have seen an increase in thefts abroad over the past few years,” Schiestl said.
Crowded locations such as public events, restaurants, tourist attractions, markets, and public transport remain the most common places for mobile phone thefts. Underground stations and trains are frequently reported locations in insurance claims.
Phone damage and thefts are covered by home or travel insurance, depending on the policy and situation. If’s home insurance covers items taken on trips, with coverage valid for up to one year.
Schiestl recommended separate travel insurance for those seeking a lower deductible. “Home insurance offers broad coverage, but for those who want a lower excess for travel-related claims, it’s better to insure items separately when buying travel insurance,” he said.
Phones that break during travel can be sent to If’s authorised service partners for repair. Customers staying in remote locations for the summer, such as summer cottages, can also mail their devices for service. Temporary replacement phones are available while repairs are made.
If also offered guidance for protecting devices:
Use protective cases and screen covers. If customers can get a free tempered glass installation through partners Resete and iTapsa during repair.
Add a trusted contact’s number to your phone’s ICE (In Case of Emergency) information. This helps both in emergencies and if the phone is lost.
Back up data regularly, including photos and contacts.
Protect the phone with a PIN and lock screen. If stolen, report the theft to your mobile operator to block the device.
Avoid carrying your phone in unsecured pockets or holding it loosely in crowds.
HT
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Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
