Best Tech and Apps for Preventing Phone Theft

An unfortunate truth about the world we live in today is that theft is a common part of our daily lives, and it’s become something we all need to be constantly aware of and alert to in order to ensure that we don’t become victims of needless criminality.

Theft exists in many different forms, from large-scale incidents like stealing cars or defrauding people out of big sums of money to smaller-scale examples of so-called petty theft – more opportunistic crime occurring in the form of pickpocketing.

One of the most common items to be stolen (in the case of the latter) is cell phones. Virtually everybody’s got a phone these days, and whether they’re kept in pockets or handbags, one of the downsides of cell phones being small, light and portable is that it’s also shockingly easy to nick for those with nefarious intentions.

Unfortunately, phones aren’t cheap – we’re talking a couple of hundred pounds – so it’s no surprise that more and more people are starting to look for effective ways to keep them safe and avoid theft.

The good news is that plenty of tech companies have risen to the challenge, developing technology and apps to help people protect their belongings and stop their cell phones from being stolen.

 

The Best Tech and Apps to Prevent Cell Phone Theft in 2025

 

Here are a few of the the best options for tech and apps that’ll help you prevent or deal with cell phone theft.

 

Crook Catcher

 

CrookCatcher is an anti-theft app designed to help recover stolen or lost Android devices. It discreetly captures photos of anyone attempting to unlock your phone, providing valuable evidence for identification. The app also offers GPS tracking to pinpoint your device’s location. Its user-friendly interface ensures easy setup and operation.

CrookCatcher is particularly useful for individuals seeking a straightforward solution to protect their devices from unauthorised access. But, users should be aware of potential privacy concerns associated with background photo capture features. Always review app permissions and settings before installation.

 

 

Prey

 

Prey is a comprehensive security solution for Android, iOS, Windows and macOS devices. It allows users to track their devices, capture photos and remotely lock or wipe data. The app’s geolocation feature helps pinpoint the device’s location, while the “screaming alarm” can deter unauthorised access.

Prey offers both free and premium versions, catering to individual users and businesses. Its cross-platform compatibility makes it a versatile choice for users seeking robust device protection. Regular updates and a user-friendly interface enhance its reliability and effectiveness.

 

Where’s My Droid

 

Where’s My Droid is an Android-exclusive anti-theft app that offers features like GPS tracking, remote locking and SIM card monitoring. Users can activate a loud alarm to locate their device or remotely wipe data to protect personal information. The app’s stealth mode ensures it operates discreetly, and the geofencing feature alerts users if the device leaves a predefined area.

With both free and premium versions available, Where’s My Droid provides essential tools for device recovery and security. Its straightforward setup and reliable performance make it a popular choice among Android users.

 

Cerberus

 

Cerberus is a powerful anti-theft app for Android devices, offering features like GPS tracking, remote lock and data wipe. It allows users to take photos and record audio remotely, aiding in identifying unauthorised access.

The app’s “fake shutdown” feature deceives potential thieves by displaying a fake power-off screen while keeping the device active. Cerberus also offers smartwatch integration and SIM card change notifications. While its comprehensive features are beneficial, users should be aware of potential privacy concerns and ensure they are comfortable with the app’s permissions before installation.

 

Phone Anti-Theft Alarm

 

Phone Anti-Theft Alarm is an Android app designed to deter unauthorised access to your device. It emits a loud alarm when someone attempts to unlock your phone, alerting you to potential theft. The app’s sensitivity settings can be adjusted to detect even slight movements, ensuring timely alerts.

Its simple interface and ease of use make it accessible for all users. However, it’s important to note that the app’s effectiveness may vary depending on the device’s hardware and the environment’s noise levels. Regular updates are recommended for optimal performance.

 

LookWatch

 

LookWatch is an Android app that enhances device security by alerting users to unauthorized access attempts. It captures photos of individuals trying to unlock your phone, providing evidence for identification. The app also offers real-time notifications and allows users to remotely lock their device.

Its discreet operation ensures that potential intruders are unaware of the monitoring. LookWatch’s user-friendly interface and reliable performance make it a valuable tool for protecting personal information. However, users should review app permissions and settings to ensure privacy and security.

 

Third Eye

 

Third Eye is an Android app designed to monitor and record unauthorised access to your device. It captures photos and records videos when someone attempts to unlock your phone, providing evidence for identification. The app operates in the background, ensuring discreet monitoring. Its real-time alerts notify users of potential intrusions, allowing for prompt action.

Third Eye’s focus on security and privacy makes it a suitable choice for individuals seeking to protect their devices from unauthorised access. But, it’s really important that users are aware of the app’s permissions and make sure they align with their privacy preferences