July 17, 2026, 10:32 am | Read time: 2 minutes
A stolen smartphone means much more than just the loss of an expensive device. Deutsche Telekom warns of a scam where criminals aim to obtain passwords and account access after the theft.
Thieves Are After More Than Just the Smartphone
During vacation season, the number of smartphone thefts increases. Whether at the beach, in a café, or in busy city centers, these devices are a coveted target for criminals. However, according to a recent warning from Deutsche Telekom, the attack often doesn’t end with the actual theft.
Instead of simply reselling the smartphone, perpetrators increasingly try to contact their victims afterward. They pose as honest finders and claim to want to return the device. In reality, they have another goal: They want to obtain login credentials to unlock the smartphone and increase its resale value.
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Why iPhones Are Especially Targeted
iPhones are particularly attractive. As long as the activation lock with the Apple ID is active, the devices can only be used or sold in a limited way. The same applies to Android smartphones with an active Google account. However, if criminals manage to remove these accounts, the value of the stolen devices increases significantly.
To achieve this, the perpetrators rely on social engineering. Victims receive SMS, messenger messages, or calls prompting them to enter passwords, security codes, or other login data. The story sounds plausible: The smartphone has been found and can be returned after a brief identity verification. In reality, the sensitive data goes directly to the fraudsters.
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How to Protect Yourself After a Theft
Telekom advises never to share passwords, PINs, one-time codes, or login credentials with unknown individuals–no matter how credible their story seems. Legitimate finders do not need this information to return a lost smartphone.
If the device is stolen or lost, affected individuals should immediately mark it as lost through the official functions of Apple or Google and, if possible, lock it remotely. It is then advisable to change important passwords and check security-related accounts. Quick action and remaining suspicious can prevent a smartphone theft from turning into identity theft.