Overview

• Lewis advises dialing *#06# to display the IMEI, then taking a screenshot and emailing it to yourself for safekeeping.
• Police can use the IMEI to help trace and block a stolen handset, and buyers can check if a device has been reported lost or stolen.
• He recommends turning on facial recognition or fingerprint security for both the device and banking apps to harden access.
• Users are urged to disable preview notifications on the lock screen and to maintain regular backups to protect photos, videos, and data.
• If a phone is stolen, use Find My iPhone or Find My Device, provide location and the IMEI to police, file a report promptly, notify your bank, and change passwords.