Danielle Spencer, the Australian actress best known for her role in Home and Away, has issued a stark warning to tourists visiting London after her brand-new phone was stolen during a sightseeing trip earlier this month. The 57-year-old, who was previously married to actor Russell Crowe, said the device was taken from her handbag without her noticing.
Details of the Theft
Spencer shared her experience on Instagram, writing: “London! Had a lovely time, but I don't have a lot of footage because a pickpocket stole my (new) phone.” She urged visitors to take extra precautions, advising: “Ladies, zip up your bags. Gents, don't carry your phone (or your money) in your back pocket. If you find yourself in that neck of the woods, it's a bit of an issue there. Unfortunately I forgot, and left the pocket of my bag unzipped... didn't feel a thing.”
Follower Reactions and Similar Experiences
Her followers quickly shared their own stories of phone theft in London. One commented: “I was warned many times to be careful and not to FaceTime there as they swipe it out of your hand from their scooter.” Another said: “We were in London for two weeks and were super vigilant because a year ago my phone was taken from my zipped-up crossbody bag by a sweet-looking fake pregnant woman.” A third advised using retractable cords or wearing crossbody bags across the front of the body.
London's Phone Theft Crisis
Spencer's experience highlights a growing problem in the capital. Police figures show that almost a third of all phone thefts reported in London last year occurred in Westminster, the worst-affected borough. Marylebone is among the most notorious hotspots, followed by Camden, Southwark, and Hackney.
Other Celebrity Victims
Spencer joins a list of celebrities targeted by London criminals. Last year, Jenson Button's wife had £250,000 worth of jewellery and bags stolen outside St Pancras Station, while actress Susan Hampshire, 87, had her phone and purse taken on the Tube. In February, reports emerged that Tom Cruise left his £35 million Knightsbridge apartment because he believed the area was no longer safe, following a robbery at a nearby Rolex store where thieves used hammers and machetes.
