>>The phones can be easily transferred between users because they operate on SIM card technology. All someone has to do is switch out the SIM card with their own, and they have a new, expensive phone.
>>"We've also had vicious beatings where the people were attacked and beaten just because they wouldn't give up their cell phone," Gencerella said.
Jack Benny, circa 2009: "Your Sidekick or your life!" (pause) "WELL?" "I'm thinking it over!!"
Especially if the person mumbles something like "I'm from the government, and I'm here to help you."
Doesn’t the Sidekick phone have a manufacturer SN and a SIM so the phone knows.
I just went through this and the old Motorola RAZOR knows who it is. The SIM and the phone SN both can be blocked, at least that is what the carrier said. I bought the phone outright and had to take the proof of ownership(receipt) down before they would turn it on.
I am not so sure it’s as easy as the article says it is ...
Let me guess. Black males?
DieHard’s personal opinions:
> To avoid being robbed, police urge young people to be aware of their surroundings and to walk with friends in well-lit and populated areas.
Take the dam’n earphones out of your ears, too. In the dark you will often hear something long before you see it. Walking with your iPod blocking off your hearing at night is just plain stupid. It also advertises that you are robbable.
Never be seen outside — particularly after dark — with earphones in your ears. Definitely never turn your music up so loud others can hear it: you are advertising to everyone around you that you are unable to hear them. Bad Guys love that!
> If someone is following them, people are advised to switch directions or cross the street and walk toward a store, restaurant or a lighted house.
Change direction 90 degrees sharply so that you can get peripheral vision happening. Or if you are big and ugly, change direction 180 degrees and go straight at whoever is following you. If a fight is going to happen it is best it happens at a time and place of your choosing. Don’t get taken from behind!
> “In many cases, people were close to 24/7 convenience stores when these robberies occurred,” Silva said. “Go to one of those if you see people who make you feel uncomfortable and call police.”
Once you get there close and lock the door if you can, and immediately explain to the store owner so that he doesn’t draw down on you, thinking you’re a robber.
Be aware that the Bad Guys may still be around when you exit the store. If possible, wait until the cops show up, if they show up.
> Gencerella said people should trust their instincts.
DieHard the Hunter says people should trust their instincts. That is why God gave them to you.
> “If somebody approaches you and gives you a bad feeling, rest assured that something bad is going to happen,” he said.
Your instincts are often your one and only warning. Listen to them and act upon them immediately.
And maybe the Bad Guys hang around 7-11s like bass waiting for minnows near a drop-off. If possible, go the extra mile and get your goodies at a regular grocery store. Then again, if the guy changes course and follows you, use the damn thing and be on line with 911 as you high-tail it.
I just can't think of anyone I want to talk to that much!
Set ‘em up. Create a duplicate Sidekick with a nasty little surprise; a small explosive charge which can be set off remotely. BANG!
End of problem.