Phone Security & Tips

A mobile phone is a valuable piece of equipment which unfortunately can be prone to theft and fraud.  When using your mobile, always remain aware of the value that it has to other people.

• Protecting your Phone
• Lost / Stolen Mobile phones

Protecting your Phone

There are a few simple steps that can be taken to assist in protecting you and your phone:

• Lock your GSM phone to your SIM card.  This security feature minimises the possibility of your phone being used with another SIM card
  
• Enable the PIN (personal identification number) security feature of your mobile phone so it can only be used if the PIN has been keyed in
  
• Record the 15-digit IMEI (international mobile equipment identification) number of your GSM mobile phone handset
  
• The IMEI is located on the back of your phone, underneath the battery - you will have to take the protective back panel from the phone.  Alternatively, if you dial *#06# on your keypad, the IMEI code will appear on the phone's display panel.

Mobile operators offer customers insurance schemes that will assist in replacing your mobile phone should it be damaged or lost.  Ask your mobile operator about the options open to you, such as an insurance policy. Mobile phone insurance will add an additional cost to your bill. Please check out all the terms and conditions before you sign up to mobile phone insurance.

Lost / Stolen Mobile phones

1. If your mobile phone is lost or stolen, contact your mobile phone service provider to immediately to suspend your service and prevent unauthorised calls being made and billed to you.  Your service provider will block your SIM card and IMEI number to prevent your phone from being used on all networks (Remember to register your IMEI with your mobile phone company)
   
2. Report the loss or theft to the Gardai, providing identification numbers for your SIM card ) and handset (IMEI).  This information may assist the police in the recovery of your mobile phone.  It may also be necessary to report this to the Gardai in order for your phone insurance provider to honour your policy

If your phone has been stolen or if you have any questions about how to protect your phone, you should contact your network operator.