IMEI
numbers make stolen phones uselessNew database
makes stolen phones useless to thieves01 November
2002
A new mobile phone database launched today
will prevent stolen mobile phones from being used on any UK mobile
network helping to make them worthless to thieves. Reporting
the number of your stolen phone to your network operator will now enable
it to be cancelled like a stolen credit card. This applies to both
pre pay and contract phones. The new shared
database set up by all UK mobile phone operators and the Global System
for Mobiles Association means stolen phones can now be barred on all
networks, by reference to the phone’s unique identifying code
(IMEI number). The database is complemented by the
Mobile Telephones (Re-programming) Act which came into force on October
4th. The legislation enables the police to tackle those fuelling the
trade in stolen mobile phones with penalties of up to five years in
prison for those caught reprogramming the IMEI number on mobile phones.
The measures have been introduced as part of an
ongoing programme of work by the Government, mobile phone industry
and police to crack down on mobile phone theft. John
Denham, Home Office Minister for Crime Reduction and Policing said
"Home Office research shows that mobile phones are involved in
28% of robbery. The package of measures we have developed together
with the industry and the police will help to build on the reductions
we have already seen as a result of the street crime initiative. Our
new legislation enables the police to take action against those fuelling
the trade in mobile phones". Tim Godwin, Acting
Assistant Commissioner of the Met police said "This is a very
positive initiative from the partnership of the Home Office, mobile
phone network operators and the police. The new legislation combined
with the ability to block mobile phones that are stolen has the potential
to significantly impact on crime". Additional
advice from the Home Office to coincide with the launch of the database
is to: - Register your phone with your network operator.
This will make barring easier.
- Record your IMEI
number and your phone number and keep these in a safe place separate
from your phone. Your IMEI number can be accessed by keying *#06# into
most phones or by looking behind the battery of your phone.
- Report
the number of your stolen phone to your network operator as quickly
as you can. It can now be disabled.
- Remain alert.
Your phone is a valuable item. When you are out be aware of your surroundings
and don’t use your phone in crowded areas or where you might feel
unsafe.
www.homeoffice.gov.uk www.met.police.uk Global
System for Mobiles Association | 
