How to block IMEI number of a lost or stolen mobile

What blocking by IMEI does

Every handset carries an IMEI, a 15-digit code that networks read whenever the phone connects. When you block mobile by IMEI number online, the code goes onto a national blocked list. All operators then deny service to that handset. Swapping the SIM does not help a thief, because the block follows the device.

If someone puts any SIM into the blocked phone, details of that user are passed to the police for tracing. The block does not lock the screen or wipe your data, so rely on the locate-and-erase option of your phone account for that, if it was set up. Read what tracking is really possible before trusting any app or website that promises a location.

Step 1: file a phone stolen complaint with the police

The CEIR form will not go through without a police complaint number. You can file it in two ways:

• Online: many state police websites let you file a lost article report or e-FIR from home. You get a complaint number and a copy as a PDF.
• At the police station: go to the station covering the place of loss. For theft or snatching, ask for an FIR; for a simple loss, a lost report is usually enough.

Write down the police station name, the complaint number and its date exactly as printed. The kit above prepares a complaint letter with your IMEI, numbers, date and place filled in, ready to print and sign.

Step 2: how to block mobile number if lost, and get it back

Your SIM and your handset are blocked separately. Call or visit your telecom operator and ask them to block the lost SIM straight away. This stops anyone using your number for OTPs or calls.

Then ask for a duplicate SIM with the same number. Carry an original ID proof; the operator verifies you before issuing it. The CEIR form sends its OTP to this number, so wait until the new SIM is active before you start.

Step 3: how to block IMEI number on the CEIR portal

Exact labels can change slightly; follow the wording shown on the portal. This is the whole answer to how to block phone with IMEI number yourself, without any agent.

What each part of the form asks for

No box or bill at hand? Our guide to finding the IMEI of a missing handset lists every other place to look. You can test the digits with the IMEI checker.

After you submit: the Request ID

The Request ID is your key to everything that follows. Save it in a note, email it to yourself and write it on the police copy.

• Check Request Status on CEIR shows whether the block is complete.
• Forgot Request ID recovers it by OTP on the number you used.
• The same ID is asked for when you later unblock the phone.

When the phone turns up, follow our unblock guide.

Blocking through the police instead

Some people search for a CEIR police portal. Police units in several states can raise the block for you from their own systems, for example ZIPNET, CCTNS or the state's police website, when you file the complaint. Ask at the station whether they will do this.

If the police raise the block, its status may not appear when you check on CEIR, and unblocking also has to go through them. Keep the officer's contact and the complaint number together. Blocking by yourself on CEIR as well is not needed when the police confirm they have done it; ask them if you are unsure.

Common problems and what to do

Keep yourself safe

If your bank or payment apps were on the stolen phone and money has gone, call 1930 at once and report on the national cyber crime portal. Change important passwords from another device the same day. For the bigger picture, see the CEIR portal guide.