What to do if your smartphone is stolen

Tips for recovery and protection

As the cost of smartphones continues to rise, so does the number of devices falling into the hands of thieves. Losing a phone isn’t just an inconvenience—it can mean losing access to personal photos, sensitive information, banking apps, and digital identity. With thefts on the rise, knowing precisely what to do if your phone is stolen is more important than ever.

Leading tech expert Joe Davies, renowned for his expertise in cybersecurity and digital safety, has shared valuable insights on how to recover a lost or stolen phone. With years of experience advising individuals and businesses on digital protection, Davies offers practical advice to enhance your chances of getting your phone back—and, just as importantly, keeping your data safe.

In today’s digital-first world, phones are much more than tools for communication. They serve as everything from wallets and navigation aids to social lifelines. This is why the impact of losing one can be so devastating. Whether through a clever hack seen on TikTok or more established recovery strategies, knowing what to do immediately after your phone goes missing can make all the difference.

Can TikTok help you find your phone?

A TikTok video recently went viral. It demonstrated a supposed hack for locating a stolen phone using Apple or Google’s built-in ‘Find My’ feature. The video showed how users could track their device if it remained turned on and connected to the internet.

While the hack sparked interest, Davies cautions against relying on it entirely. “The viral TikTok hack is a good starting point, but it’s not a complete solution. You have limited options if your phone is off or disconnected from the internet. Always ensure that the necessary tracking services are enabled before any potential loss,” he said.

So while social media may sometimes offer helpful guidance, it’s only part of the picture. Combining tech tools, official procedures, and preventative measures gives you the best chance of recovery.

Use ‘Find My iPhone’ or ‘Find My Device‘

If you planned and activated either Apple’s ‘Find My iPhone’ or Google’s ‘Find My Device,’ you are already in a strong position. These tools allow users to track the device’s location, play a sound to locate it nearby, display a message on the lock screen, or even erase all data remotely if recovery seems unlikely.

Davies notes that enabling these features beforehand is crucial. “One of the most reliable ways to track a stolen phone is through the manufacturer’s built-in features. Ensure they’re enabled beforehand, or you’ll miss out on these helpful tools.”

Notify your mobile network provider.

If the device is not traceable via location services, contact your mobile service provider. Providers can often block the phone using its unique IMEI number, rendering it useless to the thief. Some may even be able to assist with tracking or logging unusual activity.

Lock it down remotely

Regardless of the platform, remote locking is vital in safeguarding your information. This prevents access to emails, financial apps, social media accounts, etc. Android and iOS platforms allow you to remotely lock your device with a password, ensuring that your data remains protected even if your device is stolen.

Report it to the police

While it may seem futile in some cases, filing a police report is still a good idea. Many insurance companies require an official report to process claims. In some cases, police departments can also track stolen phones using the IMEI. Make sure to include all relevant details, such as the last known location and identifying characteristics of your device.

Check local lost-and-found departments

It’s worth checking lost-and-found services at locations you recently visited. Airports, shopping centres, cafes, and even buses and trains often have systems in place for handling lost property. You’d be surprised how many phones are turned in by honest strangers.

Try third-party security apps

Beyond what Apple and Google offer, apps like Prey and Lookout provide additional protection. These apps can take photos of whoever uses the phone, track movement patterns, and even issue custom alarms or lockdowns. However, these apps must be installed and configured in advance, so it’s best to set them up as part of your regular phone security routine.

Davies recommends them as supplementary tools: “Third-party apps can be a good backup option, but you must install them in advance. These apps may not be as effective as the built-in features, but they offer extra layers of security.”

Make your phone less attractive to thieves

Finally, while it won’t help you recover a lost phone, using a distinctive or bulky phone case can make your device a less appealing target. A scratched or uniquely styled case is more complicated to resell, which could deter opportunistic theft.

Ultimately, while no method can guarantee the safe return of a stolen phone, combining these approaches will increase your odds of success. More importantly, the best defence is a proactive one.

“The best way to prevent a phone from being stolen is to be proactive. Prevention is always better than recovering something once it’s gone,” Davies advises.

Take a few basic precautions the next time you step out with your phone. Enable tracking features, set strong passcodes, install backup security apps, and stay aware of your surroundings. Being prepared can make all the difference in a world where your mobile holds the keys to your digital life.

Image: In today’s digital-first world, phones are much more than tools for communication. Credit: Jakub Zerdzicki