Quarter of all mobile phones stolen between midnight and 4am

Gardaí have launched a new campaign to encourage people to be more "streetwise" when they are out and about.

Mobile phones are the most common items stolen from people, with a quarter of them being robbed between midnight and 4am.

Cash and credit cards are the next most common items taken.

Gardaí are advising people to:

• Plan their journey, telling someone where you’re going, and using well lit routes to get there

• Be observant and concealing valuables

• Avoid making mobile phone calls in public places

• Be wary of strangers and avoiding confrontation

"We want people to enjoy themselves when out, and taking a few easy steps can greatly reduce the chances of their day or night being ruined," said Sgt Alan Roughneen of the National Crime Prevention Unit.

"These include remaining observant, be conscious of your alcohol intake, don’t make it easy for a thief to take your phone by leaving it on the table, and avoid walking in dark locations."