🚨 How to avoid having your "PHONE STOLEN" in Bali & what to do if it happens
I had my phone stolen in Bali in March 2026. At the time, it was mounted on a sturdy motorcycle phone holder with a lock and screwed in tight, but it was still taken. Afterwards, I also heard from a foreign friend that their phone was snatched right after they took it out in front of a bar to book a ride back.😓
Therefore, I want to share a few tips so everyone can be more careful.
✅How to minimize the risk of phone theft:
• Always keep your phone on you. If you don't really need to use it, put it in your pants pocket or a zipped bag.
• Avoid mounting your phone on a motorcycle holder, even the types with secure locks or screws. If you need directions, use earphones so Google Maps or Apple Maps can read the directions out loud.
• Don't hold your phone in your hand while driving or standing close to the curb, as this is when it is very easy to be snatched.
❗️If your phone is stolen:
• Check if the nearby area has security cameras (CCTV) to review what happened.
• Track your phone immediately using Find My iPhone or Find My Device. If the device has been turned off, switch to Lost Mode and leave your contact information on the lock screen.
• Back up your data (iCloud backup) regularly. For me, the most important things are photos and videos, so backing up helps me not lose those memories.
• Get travel insurance if possible, because insurance usually requires documentation when a theft occurs.
• Report it to the local police. The chances of getting the phone back may not be high, but you will need the report for insurance claims.
Based on my experience, phone theft cases in Bali mostly take advantage of carelessness or involve quick snatching rather than violent robbery. I still feel that Bali is a safe destination and very much worth visiting, people just need to be more careful with their phones, especially when riding a motorbike or using a phone in public places.
Source: Johnson Lee
