Martin Lewis tells everyone with smartphone to send one text

Protecting your phone from scams and thieves has become increasingly important and this one tip can help keep your device safe. Martin Lewis, financial expert, issued a warning to smartphone users on ITV's This Morning show.

With phone thefts skyrocketing, the Money Saving Expert founder shared some simple steps everyone should take to safeguard their devices. He said: "You can switch off payments. It doesn't stop your phone from being sold on, but it reduces the risk." To make it even harder for people to access your device, Mr Lewis recommended ensuring biometrics are set up. This includes face and fingerprint scanning for both phone login and banking app login, reports the Liverpool Echo. The money-saving expert stressed that it's "very important" to have this setting enabled on both.

Additionall, Mr Lewis urged people to "type into your phone *#06#". Following this, a series of barcodes known as IMEI numbers should appear.

This is the ID you'll need if your phone is stolen or goes missing. You're advised to take a screenshot of your IMEI number and email it or send it to another device for safekeeping.

It's crucial to know what your IMEI number is so you can provide it to the police when reporting your phone as stolen.

You'll see several different numbers displayed on your screen, but the one you need follows 'IMEI' or 'IMEI1'.

Another handy tip is to switch off preview notifications. When a notification comes in, it won't show up on your lock screen; instead, it will simply inform you that a notification has arrived.

You should have a look through your security settings to see if there are other ways to bolster your phone's security.

Regularly backing up your phone is key to safeguarding your data, including irreplaceable photos and videos. It also aids in getting you back up and running swiftly if your phone is nicked.

According to MoneySavingExpert.com, more than 200 mobile phones are pinched every single day in the UK, with thieves nicking £1,000s from victims by accessing their personal data and banking apps.

MSE warned: "An unlocked phone is a gateway to stealing your money. Your banking apps, personal information and emails are all potentially exposed, making it easier for a thief to commit identity and financial fraud."