Lost your smartphone? Here’s how you can locate and disable it

Our smartphones hold all our data, including the banking data. Losing it or our smartphones being stolen are the worst nightmares that can come true. But what are you supposed to do if you lose or someone steals your smartphone? How can you track it? Can you block the device so that no one can access it illegally? Don’t worry I am here to answer all your questions.

How to track and block a lost smartphone?

In case you lose your smartphone, the first thing is not to panic. The Indian Government has introduced the Sanchar Saathi portal for your help. The portal has been set up by The Department of Telecommunications. It uses the Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) to track down your device. 

With the help of this portal, you can easily track and block your device to prevent misuse. Here’s how you can use it.

Also read: 5 tips to the rescue incase your smartphone hangs

How to use the Sanchar Saathi portal?

Firstly, remember that to be able to use the portal, you need to have a valid police complaint against the loss/theft of your smartphone with you. Apart from that, anyone with a valid mobile number can use the portal. 

Step 1: Go to the Sanchar Saathi website- https://sarcharsaathi.gov.in 
Step 2: Next, register on the portal by clicking on the ‘Register Here’ button.
Step 3: Find and click on the option that reads ‘Find stolen/lost device’
Step 4: Here, you will be required to type in details such as your name, mobile number, IMEI details, device’s brand, model, and invoice. 
Step 5: At this point, you will also be required to upload the purchase bill of your smartphone.
Step 6: Post that, you will be asked to enter details about the loss of your device. This will include city, district, state, and date.
Step 7: Additionally, you will have to share the details of the police station where you have filed a complaint, and the complaint number and upload a copy of the complaint.
Step 8: Next, you will have to enter your details along with a valid photo identity card, like Aadhaar, etc.
Step 9: Now enter your mobile number and generate OTP.
Step 10: Once your OTP is verified, you can create an account by simply adding your name, email address, and password. After adding the details click on the “Create Account” button.
Step 11: Now log in to the portal. 

How to locate and disable your device?

Follow these steps to locate and block your device:

Step 1: Once you log in, click on the “IMEI Search” button.
Step 2: Enter your device’s IMEI number and tap on “Search.”
Step 3: It will display the location of your smartphone.
Step 4: If you wish to block your device, then click on the “Block Stolen/Lost Mobile” button, add your phone number, and select the reason for blocking your phone.
Step 5: Click on the “Block” button. Your phone will be blocked, and it will not be able to make or receive calls or messages.

If you end up finding your device and wish to unblock it, you can do so on the portal itself.

Also read: Beware! AI Voice cloning could be scammers’ next big tool

What is the IMEI number?

The IMEI number is a unique identifier for your device. This can help you in various purposes such as tracking your phone if it’s lost or stolen, or for certain technical support issues. 

How to find the IMEI number of your device?

Unfortunately, there are not many ways to find it. However, you always have the IMEI number of your device written on the packaging. So make sure you keep it somewhere safe after unboxing the smartphone. 

Furthermore, you can also get the IMEI number by dialling a code from your device. Although, it can’t happen if it’s stolen or lost. But anyway, I’ll tell you how to do it so that you can save it somewhere as a precaution. 

Dialling a Code

• Open the Phone app on your device.
• Dial *#06#.
• Your device will display the IMEI number on the screen.

So that’s how you can locate your stolen/lost smartphone and can even block it.