CTIA Launches Online Database to Track Lost and Stolen Smartphones

CTIA launched an online database tool to help consumers learn whether a used or refurbished smartphone has been reported lost or stolen, it said Thursday. Consumers, police and resellers can use the website to verify the status of a recovered phone by entering a device's unique ID at the website. The ID can be located in the phone’s device settings or on packaging. If a device has been reported as stolen or lost in the database, it will show a red status, and note that wireless service may be blocked from the device, CTIA said.