We basically live on our phones now. And that means if it’s ever lost or stolen, the stakes are pretty high. Do you know what to do if YOUR device goes missing? Here’s a step-by-step guide . . .
1. Mark your phone as lost. As soon as you notice your phone isn’t with you, you should mark it as missing on another device. Both Apple and Android phones have ways to lock down certain features when it’s missing.
2. But DON’T delete your device from your account. If you fully remove the device from your Apple or Google account, it will make it easier for a thief or scammer to reset and resell the phone as a new device.
3. Change your passwords. Change any passwords to your email accounts or payment apps. You should also change the password for your phone account.
4. Remove your phone from the list of devices for multi-factor authentication.
Two-factor authentication is great, except when your phone is in the wrong hands. You don’t want bank passcodes being texted to the wrong person.
5. Disconnect payment features. If you use your phone to pay for things, disable any credit cards that are on your phone by signing in to your bank and locking those cards. Or call your bank to let them know your account is compromised.
iPhones and some Androids also have stolen device payment protections you can enable BEFORE losing your phone. So maybe look into getting those set up NOW.
6. Report it to the authorities. If your phone was stolen, file a police report. It’s helpful if you can give them the phone’s unique serial number, so maybe jot that down somewhere. Even if they don’t help you get your phone back, a police report could help if you ever need to provide proof that the device was stolen.
7. Report it to your job. If you use your personal phone for work, you should also tell your company’s IT department what happened, so they can help you lock down access to certain job information.
8. Check your insurance policy to see if it will cover costs. Your cell phone manufacturer or carrier may have insurance you purchased when you first got your phone. If not, your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance might help cover the cost of your missing phone.
