Warning about smartphone robberies
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Due to their high demand and portability, smart phones are extremely attractive for thieves.
The high cost of these items is also driving people to purchase them online at discounted prices through various websites. This is resulting in additional robberies of potential buyers and sellers at agreed upon meeting places.
Prevent smart phone theft
- Store your phone and other valuables out of sight.
- Be attentive to your surroundings and wary of anyone following you.
- Save the serial number and International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number of your phone outside of the device.
- Install apps that will track your phone.
If your mobile phone is lost or stolen:
- Report it to your local police.
- Call your wireless service provider to provide the device’s IMEI number as soon as possible so they can disconnect the phone and prevent any unauthorized calls or texts.
The Canadian Telecommunications Association administers a national blacklist called Device Check Canada.
When a participating wireless service provider adds the IMEI number of a stolen or lost device to Device Check Canada, the device is blocked and cannot be used on participating Canadian wireless networks.
Without the IMEI, the device cannot be added to the blacklist.
For more information, contact your wireless service provider.
Planning to buy a pre-owned mobile phone?
- Buy used phones from a reputable vendor.
- Check the IMEI number to ensure the device has not been reported lost or stolen in Canada.
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