iPod proves a massive hit with thieves

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Apple's iPod music player is not only popular with shoppers - it is also becoming increasingly popular with criminals.

A series of muggings of people for their iPods has been reported, and experts warn the distinctive white headphones could be the secret of its appeal to criminals.

Gary Parkinson, deputy editor of gadget magazine Stuff, claimed the key for owners was to change the headphones. "Having white headphones might be stylish but they act as an indicator to thieves. You really are an obvious target if you use them.

"The other problem is that the iPod is so shiny and lovely that you always want to get it out and show people. However, this attracts criminals like magpies. We'd recommend people use the remote control and keep the iPod itself in a pocket."

The Met warned owners to treat iPods in the same way they would a mobile phone, keeping it hidden whenever possible and also noting the serial number.

Saqib Sabir was recently mugged for his iPod on his way home from work. He said: "I was walking down the road near to my home when two men jumped me. They pulled a knife and told me to hand over my phone.

"Then one of them spotted my iPod. They obviously knew what it was, because they immediately threw my phone away to take it. I was gutted, I use my iPod all the time, and I'd only had it a few weeks."

But he said he had bought it on a credit card, meaning it was insured, and was able to buy a replacement relatively quickly.

 

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