If your phone is stolen, report your number to your network operator and the police – the handset can then be barred on all networks and will be useless to thieves.

You can help protect your mobile phone if you register your phone with your network operator. Record your IMEI number and your phone number and keep these in a safe place separate from your phone. Your IMEI number (15 digit serial number) can be accessed by keying *#06# into most phones or by looking behind the battery of the phone.

Report the number of your stolen phone to your network operator and the police as quickly as you can. It can now be cancelled immediately like a stolen credit card.