Lost Device Recovery Plan
Comprehensive plan to locate, secure, and recover lost or stolen mobile devices.
Prepare Before Device Loss
The best time to prepare for device loss is before it happens. Set up tracking and remote management now.
Prevention Setup
Enable Find My Device
Android: Settings → Security → Find My Device → Enable
iPhone: Settings → [Name] → Find My → Find My iPhone → Enable
Set Strong Lock Screen
Use biometric (fingerprint/face) with strong PIN or password backup. Never use simple patterns or codes.
Enable Automatic Backups
Android: Google Photos, Google Drive
iPhone: iCloud Backup
Ensure data can be restored to new device.
Record Device Information
Write down IMEI number, serial number, model. Keep in safe place separate from device.
Immediate Actions When Device is Lost
Locate Device (First 15 Minutes)
Android: android.com/find
iPhone: icloud.com/find
Check last known location, play sound if nearby.
Enable Lost Mode
iPhone: Use Lost Mode to lock device and display contact message
Android: Use "Secure Device" to lock with new password
Call Your Number
Someone honest may answer. Offer reward if appropriate. Don't confront if you suspect theft.
Check Recent Locations
Retrace steps, contact businesses you visited. Check lost and found at last known locations.
If Device Cannot Be Recovered
Remote Wipe Device
Android: Use "Erase device" from Find My Device
iPhone: Use "Erase iPhone" from Find My
WARNING: This permanently deletes all data.
Contact Carrier
Report loss, suspend service, prevent unauthorized charges. Request SIM lock or replacement.
Change Critical Passwords
Update passwords for email, banking, social media from secure device. Enable 2FA if not already active.
File Police Report
For theft, file report with local police. Provide IMEI, serial number. Get report number for insurance claim.
Notify Insurance
If you have device insurance, file claim promptly with police report number and device information.
Account Security After Loss
Log Out All Sessions
Google, Apple ID, social media: Force sign out from all devices in account settings.
Revoke App Access
Remove third-party app permissions in Google/Apple account settings.
Monitor Accounts
Watch for suspicious activity on email, banking, and social media for next 30 days.
Finding Your Device Information
IMEI Number
Dial *#06# to display IMEI. Also found in Settings → About Phone/General → About.
Serial Number
Settings → About Phone/General → Serial Number. Also on original box.
Apple ID Devices
appleid.apple.com → Devices to see all associated devices and serial numbers.
Google Account
myaccount.google.com → Security → Your devices to see connected Android devices.
Prevention Tips
- Use phone case with ID holder for contact information
- Never leave device unattended in public places
- Be aware of surroundings when using device
- Consider phone insurance for high-value devices
- Regularly backup important data
- Use wrist strap or lanyard in crowded areas
- Enable lock screen notifications showing limited info