O2

Personal health

When using a mobile phone for texting or playing games:

• Do not grip the phone tightly
• Press the buttons lightly
• Make use of the special features in the handset which minimise the number of buttons which have to be pressed, such as message templates and Predictive Text
• Take lots of breaks to stretch and relax

However, if symptoms such as persistent or recurring discomfort, pain, throbbing, aching, tingling, numbness, burning sensation, stiffness are experienced, do not ignore these warning signs, promptly see a qualified health professional.

The O2 helpline is 08705 214000 or 100 from an O2 mobile phone.

PIN protection

Always set up your mobile phone with PIN protection and, if you are unfortunate enough to have your mobile phone stolen, remember to call your mobile phone network operator as soon as you can, to bar your number.

Your personal safety

Although 75 percent of adults in the UK have mobile phones, they are still very much a target for thieves. We've put together a few tips to help you keep safe while using your mobile phone.

Keep it separate

Keeping your mobile phone separate from your purse, bag or wallet is also important. When people are mugged for their money it is an advantage for the thief to steal your mobile phone, leaving you unable to use it to call for help.

Phoning not flaunting

It is also important to be discreet about your mobile phone. Most thieves are opportunists and will steal any items of perceived value including mobile phones, some of which can have tremendous street credibility. Even if you are not hurt, but robbed of your mobile phone, it is an upsetting and alarming experience. Consider buying a plain black case for extra concealment in public. Consider using the handsfree earpieces that are available for all mobile phones on the market today. Using one means your mobile phone is concealed and, importantly, means both your hands are free.

Not standing out in a crowd

The convenience of the mobile phone may mean you end up using it in public at times when it is unwise to draw attention to yourself. In these situations, switch the ring tone off and use the vibrate alert instead. Alternatively, allow calls to go through to your messaging service. That way you can choose not to answer a call, and ring back at a time you feel more secure. Many people now use texting as a discreet way to let friends know where they are and where they are going, particularly if they feel vulnerable. Leaving a Voicemail 901 message can also help. That message could make a huge difference if things do go wrong.

Low risk

According to the Home Office, the chance of being a victim of violent crime is low. Nevertheless, there remains a small chance that you or someone close to you could become the victim of an attack. By taking some sensible precautions, we believe you can reduce your chances of standing out as a target.