What should I do first if my phone is stolen in the UK?

Act within 30 minutes: 1) Remotely lock your device via Find My iPhone or Google Find My Device, 2) Change passwords for your email and banking apps, 3) Contact your mobile provider to block the SIM, 4) Report to police at police.uk or call 101 for a crime reference number, 5) Check bank accounts for unauthorised transactions.

Can I track my stolen phone?

Yes, if you enabled Find My iPhone (icloud.com/find) or Find My Device (google.com/android/find) before the theft. Thieves often turn phones off immediately, so check the location as soon as possible. Share the tracking information with police - never attempt to recover the phone yourself.

How do I report a stolen phone to UK police?

Report online at police.uk or call 101 for non-emergencies. You will need your phone's make, model, IMEI number (dial *#06#), time and location of theft, and any tracking data. You will receive a crime reference number needed for insurance claims.

Do I need a crime reference number for a stolen phone?

Yes. The crime reference number is essential for insurance claims, blocking your device with your provider, and protecting yourself legally if the phone is used for criminal activity. Always obtain and save this number when reporting theft.

Phone Stolen?

Act immediately - every minute counts

Complete these 5 steps within 30 minutes

Remotely Lock Your Device

Use another device to access your account and lock your mobile.

Lock Android Device

Google Find My Device

Lock Apple Device

iCloud Find My iPhone

Change Critical Passwords

Immediately change passwords for:

Google/Apple account
Email accounts
Banking apps and payment services
Social media accounts

Use a different device and ensure you're on secure WiFi

Contact Your Mobile Provider

Report the theft and block your SIM/number to prevent unauthorised use.

Find Your Provider

Report to the Police

File a theft report with your local police and get a crime reference number.

Report to UK Police Online

Or call 101 for non-emergency police assistance

Check Your Bank Accounts

Monitor for unauthorised transactions and contact your bank immediately if you spot anything suspicious.

View UK Bank Emergency Contacts

After Immediate Steps

Report IMEI to Police

Provide your device's IMEI number when filing the police report (find by dialing *#06#).

Contact Insurance Provider

If you have insurance, contact your provider with the police reference number.

Monitor Bank Statements

Check for suspicious activity over the next few weeks.

Enable Theft Alerts

Set up fraud alerts with your bank and credit reference agencies.

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Report Where Your Phone Was Stolen

Help others stay safe by marking where your phone was taken. All reports are anonymous and appear on our public theft map after verification.