Every mobile phone (and modem or device with a built-in phone or modem) has
a unique 15 digit I.M.E.I. number (I hope that acronym comes out ok for the
folks using screen readers, it's the 4 letters I.M.E.I., or IMEI). The
letters stand for The International Mobile Station Equipment Identity.
An Garda Síochána strongly recommends that smart phone owners record details
of their IMEI number for several reasons.
Firstly, An Garda Síochána can reunite recovered smart phones far easier if
the IMEI number is reported at the time of theft or loss.
Secondly, if the phone is registered with a service provider, the IMEI
number can be blocked on the networks, rendering the phone useless for
anything other than parts (this won't get your phone back, but might help
soften the resentment at having it stolen!).
Thirdly, convicting the thief or handler of the phone becomes more
straightforward if an injured party has been identified (ah yes, now we are
talking!).
How do I find my IMEI number - I hear you cry? Or mutter? Or wonder? Or not
.
Here are some ways of getting your IMEI:-
1. The IMEI is on a printed label inside the battery compartment of your
phone, except on iPhones where it is located on the pull-out tray or the
back of the phone.
2. Your mobile provider customer service agent can provide you with it if
you contact them.
3. Bring your phone into the phone shop because the text is tiny!!!
4. If you are able to take a screenshot of something on your phone screen,
there is this way too:
· Dial the following 5 digit code *#06# (otherwise known as asterix,
hash sign, zero, six, hash sign) and press "OK"
· Immediately a 15 digit number will appear on your screen (the screen
is a black background with white bar codes and be warned the IMEI code is in
VERY TINY writing).
· If able, take a screen shot of this number (this usually involves
holding the power button and home button simultaneously, but handsets may
vary).
· Email this picture to yourself, or back it up somehow to ensure you
have a record of this number.
Sergeant Courtney, who provided this information to one of our service
users, who then kindly sent it to me to share with more service users, also
provided a snippet of personal safety advice for mobile phone owners.
"People should avoid leaving their phones on tables in café's, bars,
nightclubs, and restaurants. All too often we see criminals walk past the
table while people are distracted and they just grab the phone and are gone.
Also, when making or receiving a call in public, always do so with your back
against a wall or shop window. This reduces the chances of a criminal
snatching your phone," he said.
I hope this helps keep you and your phones safe,
best wishes .
Tracy Penston
Administrator
NCBI
Working for people with sight loss
Marina House
Clarence Street
Dun Laoghaire
Co Dublin
Tel: 01-2710120
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