How many phones were stolen in Brazil in 2025?

Brazil recorded 830,890 mobile phone thefts and robberies in 2025, according to the 20th Brazilian Public Security Yearbook. That figure is 9% lower than the 909,753 cases registered in 2024 — encouraging news, but still nearly 1,325 incidents every single day.

Robberies down, pickpocketing up — what changed?

Armed or violent robberies fell 18.6%, dropping from 377,787 to 308,723 cases. However, silent thefts — pickpocketing on public transport, at busy markets and at street events — rose 0.9%, from 477,326 to 483,561. Pickpocketing now accounts for 61% of all phone-theft incidents.

Why does losing a phone hurt so much financially?

A smartphone in Brazil is far more than a communication device. Banking apps, Pix payments, digital wallets, contacts and work platforms all live on the same screen. Research by CNseg and Instituto Locomotiva found that 60% of respondents had either lost their phone or lived with someone who had — and could not immediately afford a replacement. With 53% of families unable to cover all basic monthly expenses, an unplanned device purchase can force debt or divert money meant for food, transport and rent.

What risks go beyond the hardware?

Criminals are after the data, not just the device. Banking apps, digital wallets and personal documents can be exploited for transfers, loans, social-media takeovers and scams targeting the victim's contacts. A March 2026 survey by the Brazilian Public Security Forum and Datafolha found that 78.8% of the population fears having their phone stolen, while 83.2% fear internet or phone scams.

What should you do if your phone is stolen?

Act on two fronts immediately: block the device and SIM card, freeze bank accounts and revoke access to all linked apps; then address the cost of replacement and any work disruption. Insurers point to phone insurance and Pix fraud insurance as complementary layers of protection that can cover both hardware replacement and financial losses from banking fraud.

Key Facts:
  • 830,890 phones stolen or robbed in Brazil in 2025 — 9% fewer than 2024
  • Violent robberies fell 18.6%; silent pickpocketing rose 0.9%
  • Pickpocketing accounts for 61% of all cases (~1,325/day)
  • 60% of surveyed Brazilians lost a phone or know someone who did and couldn't replace it immediately
  • 78.8% of the population fears phone theft; 83.2% fear online/phone scams (Datafolha, March 2026)