Find Smartphone: For anyone, losing a cell phone can be extremely upsetting. These days, a smartphone can safely store our bank account data, social network profiles, papers, and private images. In addition to monetary loss, there is a greater chance that private data would be misused in such a scenario. The government-launched CEIR (Central Equipment Identity Register) portal is the safest and most dependable method of tracking mobile devices in India, despite the claims of many third-party apps. Learn how to use your IMEI number to locate your misplaced phone in this guide.

Give the IMEI number

International Mobile Equipment Identity, or IMEI, is a 15-digit number that is specific to each mobile phone. Because it can identify the phone on any network worldwide, it is known as the digital fingerprint of the mobile device. The special aspect is that, even after switching SIM cards, the IMEI number remains the same, making it ideal for tracking and blocking lost or stolen phones.

You can use the mobile box, your purchase receipt, or the code *#06# to find out your phone’s IMEI number. Writing things down in a secure location is always regarded as useful.

File a complaint with the police.

The first step in reporting a phone loss or theft is to file a formal complaint at the closest police station. In addition to the paperwork needed to block the phone on CEIR, this is a legal procedure. The option to file a complaint online is also available in several states. In the complaint, be sure to include the phone’s model, brand, and IMEI number. Have a copy of the complaint number or FIR on hand at all times.

Get the paperwork and a new SIM ready

An OTP will be given to your mobile number when you register on the CEIR portal. You must obtain a duplicate SIM card with the same number that was in the misplaced phone in order to accomplish this. Also, preserve a digital duplicate of your mobile purchase bill and identification such as your Aadhar card.

Using the CEIR portal, block the phone

The purpose of the DoT-launched CEIR portal is to prevent the usage of stolen and fraudulent mobile phones. This can be used to blacklist the missing mobile phone’s IMEI, rendering it unusable on any Indian network.

To do this, you must:

Visit the sancharsaathi.gov.in website.

Click “Block Your Lost/Stolen Mobile” to get to the CEIR portal.

Complete the registration form with the lost phone number, new number, IMEI, and police FIR details.

Upload a copy of the FIR and identity.

You will receive a Request ID after submitting the form, which you may use to monitor its progress.

Your IMEI will often be blacklisted within 24 hours, making it impossible for anyone to use your phone by using a different SIM card.

CEIR’s function in phone tracing

CEIR aids in tracing even if its primary function is to block the phone. A banned phone’s location can be monitored once it joins a network. Using this information, police attempt to retrieve the phone.