Lost Your Mobile in India? You have to follow this SOP...

What can a hacker do from your stolen mobile?

Losing your mobile phone is more than losing a device. It can lead to stolen personal data, misuse of bank accounts, and fake activities in your name. As Cyber Crime Investigators in India, we see these problems often. If your mobile is lost, please act quickly.

Step 1: Immediate Actions (Golden Hour)

1. Try to Locate the Phone:

   • Retrace your steps.

   • Call your number from another phone.

   • If it is on silent and nearby, someone might pick up.

2. Tell Family or Friends:

   • Let them know your phone is lost.

   • They can look for any odd messages or calls on your behalf.

3. Contact Your Mobile Service Provider:

   • Block Your SIM Card:

     • Call your telecom company (Airtel, Jio, Vodafone Idea, etc.)

     • Tell them to block your SIM right away.

     • This stops calls and data misuse, and protects SIM-linked bank apps.

   • Get a New SIM (Optional):

     • Ask for a duplicate SIM with your old number.

     • This helps you stay reachable and track your phone if you have tracking apps.

4. Report to the Police:

   • File a Police Complaint (FIR):

     • Go to the nearest police station.

     • Give details like:

       • Your name, address, and contact details

       • IMEI number of the lost phone (keep it noted somewhere safe)

       • Phone brand, model, color, and any unique marks

       • Date, time, and place where you last had the phone

       • Your mobile number

   • Keep a Copy of the FIR:

     • You will need this for the CEIR process (IMEI blocking).

   • Or lodge complaint in https://cybercrime.gov.in/ Or Call to 1930

Step 2: Block Your Phone (IMEI Blocking) on CEIR

Why Block IMEI?

• Blocking the SIM stops misuse of your number.

• But the thief can still put another SIM in your device.

• IMEI blocking stops the phone from working on any network in India.

How to Block Your Phone Using CEIR

1. Go to CEIR Portal:

   • Website: https://sancharsaathi.gov.in/Home/ceir-services.jsp

2. Select "Block Stolen/Lost Mobile":

   • Look under "Citizen Request."

3. Fill the Request Form:

   • Device Information

     • IMEI 1 & IMEI 2 (check phone box, bill, or online account)

     • Brand and Model

     • Mobile Number

     • Copy of Invoice (if available)

     • Purchase Date

     • Lost Place and Lost Date

     • State & District where it was lost

     • Police Complaint Number (FIR number)

     • Police Station Name

     • Upload FIR Copy

   • Owner Information

     • Owner Name

     • Address

     • ID Proof Type & Upload (Aadhaar, PAN, etc.)

     • Email ID

     • Captcha

4. Submit the Form:

   • Check the declaration box and submit.

   • You will get a Request ID. Keep this safe for future use.

Step 3: Unblock Your Phone (If Found)

If you get your phone back, you can unblock it.

How to Unblock Using CEIR

1. Go to CEIR Portal:

   • https://sancharsaathi.gov.in/Home/ceir-services.jsp

2. Select "Unblock Found Mobile":

   • Look under "Citizen Request."

3. Fill the Unblocking Request Form:

   • Request ID (from when you blocked the phone)

   • Mobile Number

   • Reason: "Found Mobile"

   • Captcha

4. Submit and Wait for Verification:

   • CEIR may check more details before unblocking.

   • Once confirmed, your phone can be used again.

Important Points

• Give Correct Information: Any wrong details can delay blocking or unblocking.

• Keep Records: Store the FIR copy, Request ID, and CEIR emails safely.

• Be Patient: It can take time for CEIR to complete the process.

• Official Method: Use only this government service (CEIR) to block/unblock your phone.

Preventive Measures

• Note Down IMEI: Dial *#06# on your phone or check your box/bill. Keep these numbers somewhere safe.

• Enable Device Tracking: Turn on "Find My Device" (Android) or "Find My iPhone" (iOS).

• Use Screen Lock & Strong PIN/Passwords: This stops others from easily accessing your phone.

• Regular Backups: Save your contacts, photos, and files to the cloud or computer.

• Be Aware: Watch your phone in crowded places. Do not leave it unattended.