Losing a mobile phone can be stressful, given its importance for communication, financial transactions, and personal data storage. In India, promptly reporting a lost or stolen phone to the police is crucial to prevent misuse and increase the chances of recovery. Additionally, securing your data by blocking the IMEI number, informing your telecom provider, and monitoring your accounts can help mitigate potential risks. This guide provides a step-by-step procedure to file a police complaint, required documents, eligibility, and additional steps to safeguard your information.
Procedure to File a Police Complaint for a Lost Mobile Phone
Visit the Nearest Police Station
Go to the police station closest to the location where you lost your phone.
Draft a Complaint Letter
Write a formal letter addressed to the Station House Officer (SHO) with details such as:
Your full name, address, and contact details.
Date, time, and place of loss.
Make, model, color, and unique identifiers of the phone (IMEI number).
Mobile number of the SIM card in the device.
Submit the Complaint
Hand over the complaint letter to the duty officer and request an acknowledgment copy for reference.
Obtain an FIR or CSR Copy
In cases of theft, an FIR (First Information Report) will be registered.
For lost items, a CSR (Community Service Register) entry might be made.
Ensure you receive a copy, as it's essential for blocking the device and SIM.
Required Documents
Identification proof (Aadhaar card, passport, or driver’s license).
Proof of ownership of the mobile phone (purchase bill or warranty card).
IMEI number details (found on the phone’s box or purchase receipt).
Eligibility
Any individual who has lost or had their mobile phone stolen in India is eligible to file a complaint.
Additional Steps to Take After Filing the Complaint
Contact Your Service Provider
Inform them about the loss to block the SIM card and request a replacement with the same number.
Block the IMEI Number
Visit the CEIR (Central Equipment Identity Register) website: https://www.ceir.gov.in.
Click on "Block Stolen/Lost Mobile" and submit the required details along with the FIR copy.
Note down the "Request ID" for tracking status.
Use Tracking Applications
If tracking features were enabled:
For Android Users: Use Find My Device.
For iPhone Users: Use Find My iPhone.
If your phone was unlocked or had banking apps, immediately:
Log in from another device and change passwords for critical accounts.
Deactivate access to banking apps by informing your bank.
Log out of all sessions from social media accounts.
If the phone contained highly sensitive data, consider publishing a lost notice in local newspapers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it mandatory to file a police complaint for a lost mobile phone?
Not mandatory but highly recommended, especially if it was stolen or contained sensitive information.
Inform the police station where you filed the complaint.
If the IMEI was blocked, request unblocking through the CEIR website.
Many states in India allow online filing. Check your state police website for an "Online FIR" or "Lost Article Report" option.
Check the box/package of your mobile phone.
Dial *#06# from another device using the same SIM to retrieve past IMEI logs.
If your phone was linked to Google, check Google Find My Device.
If your phone was insured:
Submit the FIR copy to your insurance provider.
Provide purchase proof and IMEI number.
Check the insurance policy for coverage details.
