Here’s how you can trace your stolen phone
Each phone carries a unique IMEI number which can be used to track your cell phone anywhere in the world
EVERYONE has had to bear the brunt of losing a cellphone or having it stolen.
Whether you were at the mall and forgot it in the bathroom, or you spent the night with friends and had it slip out of your pocket or handbag, losing a cellphone is inconvenient and frustrating.
But did you know that there are ways of tracking down your mobile phone?
“Most of us always fear that our phones may be stolen at any time. And many people don’t know that it’s possible to trace your phone without going to the police first,” Kempton SAPS spokesperson Capt Jethro Mtshali explained.
“Each phone carries a unique IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number which can be used to track your cellphone anywhere in the world.”
Here is how it works:
1. Dial *#06# from your mobile.
2. Your mobile phone will show a unique 15 digit number.
3. Note down this number in a secure place except in your mobile phone itself, as this is the number which will help trace your phone in case of theft.
4. Once stolen, just email this 15 -digit IMEI number to cop@vsnl.net with details your name, address, phone model, make, last used number, email for communication, missed date, IMEI number.
5. Your mobile will be traced within the next 24 hours via a complex system of GPRS and internet. You will find out where your handset is being operated from and the new user’s number will be sent to your email.
6. After this, you can inform the police with the details you now have and they can take it from there.
