SYRACUSE, N.Y. – There is a warning for people who use smartphones. Syracuse Police say they are investigating more cell phone thefts. That's part of a growing national trend.

Here's an example of how it happens: According to investigators, people tell their victim they need to make a call and don't have a phone. When the smartphone is handed over they just run away with it.

Officers say people should activate their GPS signal in case their phone is lost or stolen. It can help detectives track them down. Investigators also say your smartphone should be password-protected to make sure anyone who steals your phone can't access your information.

The Syracuse Police department also says you should have the serial number of your phone written down somewhere.