New York City Safety Update: Phone Theft on the Subway & Risky Hours to Avoid
New York City Safety Update: Phone Theft on the Subway & Risky Hours to Avoid
Hello! This is Maegami from the blog Goddess’ Bangs. While New York City’s safety has improved compared to the past, crime still happens — especially in the subway. Just yesterday, I personally witnessed a phone theft incident.
Stay safe!
Phone Theft on the NYC Subway
In the early evening, at a subway platform in Manhattan, I saw an older woman chasing after a young man (he happened to be Black) while shouting:
“Catch that man! He stole my iPhone!”
The woman was running incredibly fast, but no one stepped in to help. Whether out of fear for their own safety or because the scene unfolded too quickly, everyone froze. Eventually, both the man and the woman disappeared up the stairs.
I don’t know what happened afterward, but I truly hope her phone was recovered and that she was safe.
Are Phones — Especially iPhones — Being Targeted?
Interestingly, I also had a close call last week. While waiting at a subway platform in Midtown and looking at my iPhone, I noticed a man approach me. His behavior felt suspicious, and I quickly realized he might be targeting me.
I avoided the situation by boarding a different train that had just arrived. At the next station, I switched lines to head home safely. It was unsettling but confirmed how important it is to stay alert in the subway.
Risky Hours for Theft in New York City
From my experience, thefts seem to happen most often during early evening hours, roughly between 4 PM and 7 PM. This is when commuters are tired after work, making them easier targets.
At night, it’s best to avoid the subway altogether if possible.
Don’t Expect Bystanders to Help
One harsh reality of New York today: don’t expect others to intervene. Many people worry that thieves might be armed with knives — or even guns.
If your phone or bag is stolen, the safest choice is to let it go. Your safety and life are worth far more than the price of an iPhone.
Conclusion
Both the theft I witnessed and the incident I personally experienced happened in Manhattan. If you use the subway, avoid staring at your phone on the platform, especially in the evening.
Stay alert, stay safe, and remember: in New York, prevention is the best protection.
