Beware Pokemon GO players: criminals want your smartphone

Pokémon Go is taking the world by storm and is fast becoming the most successful app of all time.

Even though it’s not officially available in South Africa yet, gamers are already wandering around public places with their eyes glued to their smartphones.

According to Bianca de Beer, spokesperson for Dialdirect: “Before you enter the augmented realm of Pokémon Go there’s a stark warning to be alert at all times and to stay aware of your surroundings. We’d like to reiterate this warning especially since smartphones are the portable possession most often claimed for according to our claim statistics.”

“We usually recommend that consumers conceal their smartphones and that they don’t unnecessarily brandish them about.”

“It is more sensible and safer to tuck your phone away in a bag or a deep, secure pocket and only take it when necessary. This advice becomes null and void when there are Mewtwo’s and Mankey’s on the loose,” says de Beer.

With this in mind, Dialdirect urges Pokémon Go Trainers to use their common sense.

“It’s also advisable to ensure that you have adequate insurance in place for your phone in the event that it does get stolen, to keep a safe record of your phone’s PUK and serial numbers and to back-up your phone’s content.”

“If your phone is stolen, report it to your operator immediately and obtain a blacklisting reference number. If the phone is blacklisted, the thief will not be able to use your phone and run up your bill,” says de Beer.

Pokémon Go is also an absolute no-no while driving.

“In an attempt to cover more ground more quickly, some Pokémon Go enthusiasts are taking to their cars and driving at a walking pace whilst staring at their screens. This is obviously a recipe for disaster and a very bad idea,” warns de Beer.