My mobile's been stolen
Phone security made simple.
Protecting your phone
Some phones have an IMEI number which is a unique identifier for the phone; you can obtain this number by typing *#06# (star hash 06 hash) into your mobile phone and it will display a 15 digit number.
Also, make sure you use your phone lock. That way, if your phone is nicked, the thief will be faced with working through dozens of combinations, and may not be able to crack it at all.
Dealing with a theft:
- Call your phone service provider as soon as you can;
- If you don't have their number, call the Immobilise mobile phone crime line on 08701 123123;
- Make a police report: Involving the police may not guarantee the return of your phone, but if you have a billing contract with your phone provider (as opposed to using phone cards) you may need to show them a copy of the report before they'll issue you with a new phone. Just don't go phoning 999 to report the theft. Be smart and drop into your local station instead.