What to do when your Mobile phone is lost or stolen

4 minute read

Your phone, laptop, or tablet disappearing is every tech users nightmare. But instead of panicking, arm yourself with the best recovery strategies.

Enable and Test Tracking Services
Long before disaster strikes, activate your platforms built-in tracking tool:

1. Apple Find My: Go to Settings, [Your Name], Find My, Find My iPhone. Ensure “Enable Offline Finding” is on.
2. Google Find My Device: On Android, visit Settings, Security, Find My Device and toggle it on.
3. Windows and Mac: Enable “Find My Device” or “Find My Mac” in System Settings and link it to your account.



Harden Your Lock Screen Controls
A lost device trapped behind a lock screen is a tougher target, especially if you disable quick-access toggles:

1. Disable Control Centre on iPhone: Settings, Face ID & Passcode, turn off “Control Centre” on Lock Screen.
2. Block Quick Settings on Android: Settings, Display, Lock Screen, disable “Show quick settings”.
3. Require Strong Authentication: Use a six-digit PIN or alphanumeric password.



Activate Remote Lock and Wipe
When you cannot retrieve your device safely, a remote lock or erase is your last line of defence:

1. Place in Lost Mode (iOS): From iCloud.com/find, select your device and click “Lost Mode.”
2. Secure Device (Android): At google.com/android/find, choose “Secure Device” to lock it with a new PIN.
3. Erase Data: If recovery seems unlikely, choose “Erase Device” to delete personal data.



For Android, go to: Android find my phone (this is slowly moving to Android Find Hub)

Notify Your Network Provider and Authorities
Beyond digital protections, take these practical steps:

1. Inform Your Mobile Carrier: Ask them to suspend service or block the SIM card.
2. Report to the Police: File a non-emergency report with the devices IMEI or serial number.
3. Change Key Passwords: Reset your Apple ID, Google Account and other critical services.
On your mobile, save this key info by using the calling screen and entering: *#06# take a picture and keep it safe.

Plan Ahead with Extra Safeguards
Preventive measures can reduce risk even further:

1. Enable Two Factor Authentication on every important account.
2. Use Encrypted Backups so your data at rest remains secure.
3. Consider a Physical Tracking Tag such as AirTag or Tile.

Losing a device is stressful, but a swift, organised response can save your data — and your peace of mind. Implement these steps today, so you are ready for whatever tomorrow brings.

Want more advice on keeping your technology safe? Speak to the team at Birak IT on 01489 290 001 for a full security audit or drop us an email.

This post was brought to you by Baldeep on 24 May 2025.

Small businesses are often left behind by IT companies as the aim is to work with the larger businesses. Baldeep started the company knowing that IT doesn't have to be your frustration. Provide great solutions at small business budgets is helping companies in Hampshire to focus on their goals without the burden of IT overheads or downtime.

Baldeep continued developing his skillset and has multiple accreditations to his name including his degree, Microsoft Certifications, ITIL and VMware Data Center Virtualization Certification. He is always learning to move IT forward for your business.

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