Watch CBS News

App Sends Victims A "Theftie" To Help Catch Smartphone Snatchers

By KYW tech editor Ian Bush

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A new feature on a popular mobile security app takes a novel approach in the fight against smartphone theft.

Lookout says one in every 10 of us has had our smartphone snatched.

"And 68 percent of them aren't able to recover the device after it's stolen," product manager David Richardson said.

To give you, or police, a better chance of tracking it down, product manager David Richardson says Lookout will snap a pic, a 'theftie,' using the front-facing camera, if it senses something suspicious.

"For example, if someone pops a SIM card out of your device or tries to enter your passcode wrong repeatedly because they're trying to get in," Richardson said.

The picture and location it was taken get sent to your email.

The 'theftie' feature works only for Android; it's a $3/month or $30/year add-on, which includes remote lock, data wiping and web page safety check. It's part of the free Lookout app for Android and iPhone.

For more information, visit: https://www.lookout.com/

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.