MoneySavingExpert's Money Tips Email

...Millions allow far too much money to drip out of their pockets and into networks' hands. Over 14m people are out of contract and being ripped off.

...And millions of phones are set up to be insecure, with thieves ever-more desperate to nick 'em. Over 270,000 people had their phone swiped over the past year (source: ONS), up 16% from the previous year.

Phone theft is about far more than just replacing the device - it can cause financial havoc if crooks get access to your apps and data. So, here are 20 tips to protect your pocket in every way...

Jump to: Slash mobile costs | Cheapest handsets | Slash mobile insurance costs | How to protect your phone & data.

1. Just five digits to tell if you're out of contract - if so, switch & save. Text 'INFO' for free to 85075. Firms are required to respond to and tell you if you're out of contract. You're looking for a reply that includes something like "a £0 early termination/cancellation charge" to find out if you're free to move. If there's a cost, you're likely still in contract.

- With Three, Smarty or iD Mobile? You'll need to reply with your date of birth to prove ID.

- On a multiple-phone contract? It won't work, but if you've been with the same firm for over two years, you're likely out of contract - do check though.

2. Out of contract? Ditch, switch & save.
36GB data, unlimited UK calls & texts & free EU roaming £3/mth. It feels like everything is getting more expensive at the moment - except for new Sim-only deals, where prices keep plummeting. Our Cheap Sim Finder will find you top deals. here are some examples:

All these include free EU roaming...
- iD Mobile (on Three's signal): Ends Thu. 36GB '£3/mth' | 100GB '£6.88/mth'
- Lebara (on Vodafone's signal) 5GB/mth '£2.43/mth' | 100GB/mth '£7.20/mth'
Not sure how much data you use? Try our Data Calc.

Alan emailed us: "Out of contract with EE at £20/mth. Haggled, but only offered £14/mth. Used your site and found iD Mobile S