Headphones are a daily accessory for many, making them a tempting target for thieves. Whether they are stolen from your head or pinched from a bag, here’s what to do.
What to do if your headphones get stolen
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Check the headphones control app on your phone. Many of them have a function that shows where they were last connected to your phone, so you can try to track them down.
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Check Find My on your phone, some Bluetooth models such as Apple’s AirPods, Samsung’s Galaxy Buds or Google’s Pixel Buds can be tracked. You may also be able to report them as lost in Find My in case anyone finds them.
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Report the theft to the police on 101 with a description of the headphones, including make, model, colour and serial number, which should be found on the box.
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Contact your insurance company to see whether the headphones are covered by any of your policies.
What do to as soon as you get a new pair
When you get a replacement or new headphones, there are a few things you can do to help if they get stolen or go missing again.
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Set up any support or control apps for your headphones on your phone and turn on the location tracking feature.
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Add the headphones to Find My on Apple or Google if they are compatible.
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Consider adding a Bluetooth tracker such as an Apple AirTag, Tile or Samsung SmartTag to the headphones or case.
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Write down the make, model and serial number of the headphones and safely store these details along with your proof of purchase.
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Consider getting the headphones engraved with your name, which may be possible at the point of purchase.
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Watch where you wear your headphones and use any awareness features on noise-cancelling versions that may help you hear something coming in the event a thief tries to take them while you are wearing them.
