Having your phone stolen can be a stressful experience. Beyond the cost of replacing the device, your smartphone may contain personal photos, banking apps, emails, passwords and sensitive information.
Acting quickly can help protect your data, prevent unauthorised access and improve your chances of a successful insurance claim.
Here's what you should do if your phone is stolen.
1. Try to Locate Your Phone
Before assuming your phone has been stolen, check whether it may have simply been misplaced.
Most smartphones include tracking features:
- Apple: Find My iPhone
- Android: Find My Device
These services may help you:
- See your phone's location
- Play a sound
- Lock the device remotely
- Display a contact message
- Erase the device if necessary
If the phone appears to be moving or located somewhere suspicious, avoid confronting anyone yourself. Contact the police instead.
2. Lock Your Device Remotely
If you're unable to recover your phone immediately, lock it as soon as possible.
Remote locking can help prevent criminals from accessing:
- Personal information
- Banking apps
- Email accounts
- Social media profiles
- Saved passwords
Even if your device is protected by biometrics or a passcode, remote locking provides an additional layer of security.
3. Contact Your Mobile Network
Notify your network provider immediately.
They can:
- Block your SIM card
- Prevent calls and texts
- Stop unauthorised usage
- Help protect you from additional charges
The sooner you report the theft, the lower the risk of fraudulent activity on your account.
4. Change Important Passwords
If your phone is stolen, it's wise to update passwords for accounts that may be accessible through your device.
Start with:
- Online banking
- Email accounts
- Apple ID or Google Account
- Social media accounts
- Payment apps
Changing passwords quickly can help prevent unauthorised access even if someone manages to bypass your phone's security.
5. Check Your Banking Apps and Payment Services
Many smartphones store digital payment methods such as:
- Apple Pay
- Google Wallet
- PayPal
- Banking apps
Contact your bank if you're concerned about unauthorised access and monitor your accounts for suspicious activity.
6. Report the Theft to the Police
If your phone has been stolen, report it to the police as soon as possible.
When making a report, try to provide:
- Device make and model
- IMEI number
- Location of the theft
- Date and time of the incident
You'll often receive a crime reference number, which may be required when making an insurance claim.
7. Find Your IMEI Number
Every mobile phone has a unique IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number.
You may find it:
- On the original box
- In your purchase documents
- Within your online device account
- On your insurance paperwork
Providing your IMEI can help networks and authorities identify the device.
8. Contact Your Insurance Provider
If you have phone insurance, contact your insurer as soon as possible.
You may need:
- Your policy number
- Details of the incident
- A crime reference number
- Your phone's IMEI number
The claims team will explain what information is required and guide you through the next steps.
How Can Phone Insurance Help?
Depending on your policy, phone insurance may provide protection against:
- Theft
- Loss
- Accidental damage
- Liquid damage
- Mechanical breakdown
Insurance can help minimise the financial impact of replacing a stolen smartphone, particularly as many modern devices can cost hundreds or even thousands of pounds.
How to Reduce the Risk of Phone Theft
While theft can't always be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:
- Enable biometric security and passcodes
- Activate Find My iPhone or Find My Device
- Avoid leaving your phone unattended
- Be cautious in crowded areas
- Store your IMEI number somewhere safe
- Keep software and security updates current
Taking these precautions can make it harder for thieves to access your information and improve your chances of recovering your device.
Key Takeaways
- Try to locate your phone using tracking tools first.
- Lock the device remotely as soon as possible.
- Contact your mobile network to block your SIM.
- Change passwords for important accounts.
- Monitor banking and payment apps.
- Report the theft to the police.
- Contact your insurer if you have phone insurance.
- Keep your IMEI number recorded in case you ever need it.
Protect Your Phone With insurance2go
Phone theft can happen when you least expect it. With insurance2go, you can protect eligible phones against a range of everyday risks, including theft, accidental damage, loss and breakdown, helping you stay connected when the unexpected happens.