During Brazil's vibrant carnival celebrations, there has been a notable increase in reports of cell phone thefts, causing distress among festival-goers. Gabriel Dixini, a student, shared how the experience of having his phone stolen created unnecessary stress while he was trying to enjoy the festivities. The situation has prompted the Brazilian federal government's 'Celular Seguro' program to receive over 2,500 notifications regarding thefts and losses since its implementation on February 13, marking an 11% rise compared to last year.

The 'Celular Seguro' initiative allows individuals whose phones have been stolen to quickly report the incident and block their devices using someone else's phone by entering just their stolen phone number. This facilitates the immediate locking of the device, along with the associated data and applications such as banking services, providing a crucial layer of security during the busy carnival period.

In response to the rising theft rates, law enforcement has deployed undercover officers to monitor and apprehend those engaging in cell phone theft during the celebrations. This proactive approach aims to protect attendees and reduce crime, ensuring that the carnival can be enjoyed without fear of losing personal belongings. The increase in security measures reflects the government's commitment to enhancing safety during one of the most significant national events in Brazil.