Mobile Phone Theft: A Persistent Problem in India and Efforts to Combat It
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 22nd May. Mobile phone theft remains a significant issue in many parts of the world, including India. The high resale value of smartphones makes them attractive targets for thieves, especially in densely populated areas or crowded public spaces like markets or public transportation hubs. To combat this issue, various cities and communities in India have implemented measures such as increased police patrols, public awareness campaigns, and tracking technologies to help recover stolen devices.
One key initiative by the government of India’s Department of Telecommunications is the Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) portal, dedicated to the recovery of stolen mobile phones. The CEIR is a centralized system that manages and tracks mobile devices using their International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers.
The CEIR database includes mobile equipment identifiers, with each SIM slot of a mobile device assigned an identifier. This system helps combat mobile device theft and misuse by allowing network operators to share blacklisted mobile devices. Consequently, a device blacklisted on one network will not function on other networks, even if the SIM card is changed.
Steps to Block a Stolen Mobile Phone Using the CEIR Portal
File a Police Complaint (FIR):
Report your lost or stolen phone to the police and obtain a copy (digital or physical) of the FIR.
The IMEI number can usually be found on a sticker behind the battery, on the retail box, or by dialing *#06# on your phone.
- Visit the CEIR portal.
- Click on the red tab labeled “Block Stolen/Lost Mobile.”
- Fill in the required details, including:
- The mobile number associated with the lost or stolen SIM card.
- The IMEI number of the phone.
- Details from your police complaint (FIR).
- Your personal details (name, address, etc.).
- Complete the CAPTCHA verification and click “Get OTP.”
- Enter the OTP (one-time password) sent to your mobile number to verify your request.
- Upon successful registration, you will receive a confirmation message with a reference ID for future reference.
Blocking the phone through the CEIR portal renders it unusable on any network in India.
The CEIR portal does not assist in locating your lost phone.
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