Keeping your phone in a back or even side pocket can be risky, especially if the pocket is large and within easy reach of a sneaky pickpocket. For that reason, try to safeguard your phone when you store it on your person. I sometimes wear pants with zippered pockets, so I can keep the phone more secure. You can also hide it in a zippered jacket pocket or coat. The summer months are more challenging since we jettison our jackets and sport short pants. But even here, I wear short pants with buttoned or strapped pockets.

Also: If you're a hiker, this is the lightweight power bank I recommend packing

You can also use a small, zippered pouch to keep your phone hidden away. And if you want to go the extra mile, consider an anti theft sling pack. Designed to hold mobile phones and other small items, these wrap around your waist or chest and are made of durable material that can't easily be cut or sliced open.

If you own an Apple Watch, you can keep your iPhone in your pocket and use your watch for a host of tasks. I'll often search for walking or mass transit directions on my phone, put it in my pocket, and then turn to my Apple Watch to follow the directions. I can also use my watch to make and receive phone calls, respond to texts and emails, access my calendar, and view the latest weather forecast. Of course, I still need my phone to take photos and videos, but otherwise it's safe and secure in my pocket.

This tip seems like a no brainer. But how often do you hold your phone loosely in one hand as you walk about? A sly thief could grab it or knock it from your hand. If you're not actively using the phone, keep it stored away in a pocket or on a lanyard.

Also: What happened when I brought a Coros smartwatch on a fly-fishing trip

If you are actively using your phone to take pictures or follow directions, grip it with both hands and use your thumbs to control it. Alternatively, hold it firmly with one hand wrapped around the edges and use your other hand to work with it. Further, keep the phone close to your chest, especially in crowded areas. The idea is to avoid giving crooks an easy and obvious target.

The final tip is the most important. Are you ever texting or talking on your phone and not paying attention to what's around you? You're essentially announcing to thieves that your phone is up for grabs.

Always be aware of your surroundings. That's especially vital in crowded spots where crooks know how and when to make off with someone's phone. Remember to always look around you. If you're using earbuds, remove one or turn off noise cancellation so you can hear nearby sounds. The key is to always be alert and never so engrossed in your phone that you put yourself and your expensive device at risk.

If a thief ever does steal your mobile phone, there are a few measures you can take.

• iPhones and Android devices both offer theft protection options that can help you better secure your phone. With his feature enabled, thieves will have a much harder time gaining access to your phone.
• iPhones and Android devices both provide a Find My tool to help you locate a stolen or lost phone. Make sure this option is enabled even when your phone is turned off.
• Save your phone's IMEI number. If your phone is ever stolen, your provider or even the police can use the IMEI number to try to track it down and disable it.
• Use a strong passcode. Beyond protecting your phone with facial or fingerprint recognition, use a strong and unique PIN with at least six digits, preferably eight.
• Back up your device. You can always replace a stolen phone with a new one. But you can't replace the photos, files, or other important information on it without a backup.