A step-by-step guide to dealing with a stolen phone
Follow these simple steps to protect your personal info and prevent identity theft.
Losing your phone can be a stressful and frustrating experience, but acting quickly can help protect your personal information and improve your chances of recovery.
According to the SAPS, an average of 189 cellphones are stolen daily in South Africa.
If you think or know that your cellphone has been stolen, you must act fast.
According to Highway Mail, Vodacom spokesperson Leigh-Ann Chetty advises that the first step after a phone is stolen is to contact your network service provider's customer care to report the stolen phone. They can help with blocking services and guide you through the necessary steps to secure your account.
Next, you should request a SIM card lock to prevent unauthorised use.
Two types of locks are available: a hard lock, which blocks both incoming and outgoing calls, and a soft lock, which allows incoming calls but blocks outgoing calls.
It's also crucial to blacklist the device to prevent it from being used with other networks. Report the theft to the authorities and file a police report with all relevant details.
If you have mobile banking apps or sensitive financial information on the phone, notify your bank immediately to prevent unauthorised transactions.
In some cases, having your phone stolen can cost you more than just a replacement device, it can cost you your identity.
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By acting quickly and following these steps, you can protect your personal information and minimise the potential misuse of your cell phone.
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