Mobile phone theft: Crime-busting database goes live

The UK's mobile operators have finally gone live with a shared database which is designed to prevent stolen handsets from being used again on any network.

The move is an attempt to help make stolen handsets worthless to thieves, but has been plagued with controversy since it was first mooted.

The new database - which is shared by all the UK's operators - means stolen phones can now be barred on all networks by reference to the phone's unique identifying code (known as the IMEI number).

But BT Cellnet and Vodafone originally refused to get involved in the scheme. They believed it would be ineffective because it's possible for more than one handset to have the same IMEI number.

A phone that sports a shared IMEI number cannot be barred from the network without the others with the same number also being blocked.

But today's launch is a step in the right direction. Reporting the number of your stolen phone to your network operator will now enable it to be cancelled like a stolen credit card. This applies to both pre-pay and contract phones.

The database is complemented by the Mobile Telephones (Reprogramming) Act which came into force on 4 October. The legislation enables the police to tackle those fuelling the trade in stolen mobile phones with penalties of up to five years in prison for those caught reprogramming the IMEI number on mobile phones.

The measures have been introduced as part of an ongoing programme of work by the Government, mobile phone industry and police to crack down on mobile phone theft.

John Denham, Home Office Minister for Crime Reduction and Policing said in a statement: "Home Office research shows that mobile phones are involved in 28 per cent of robbery. The package of measures we have developed together with the industry and the police will help to build on the reductions we have already seen as a result of the street crime initiative. Our new legislation enables the police to take action against those fuelling the trade in mobile phones."

He added: "Our strategy aims to 'design out crime' from mobiles to reduce their value to criminals. This is an important step and we will continue to work with the industry to keep pace with changing technology and one step ahead of the thieves."

Jack Wraith, Executive Secretary to the Mobile Industry Crime Action Forum, said: "With the dramatic increase in the number of mobile telephone users it is important that the customer can have the assurance that if their phone is stolen it will be worthless to the thief. The message to the thief is clear, this industry will not condone criminal activity."

Additional advice from the Home Office to coincide with the launch of the database is to:

* Register your phone with your network operator. This will make barring easier.

*Record your IMEI number and your phone number and keep these in a safe place separate from your phone. Your IMEI number can be accessed by keying *#06# into most phones or by looking behind the battery of your phone.

* Report the number of your stolen phone to your network operator as quickly as you can. It can now be disabled.

* Remain alert. Your phone is a valuable item. When you are out be aware of your surroundings and don't use your phone in crowded areas or where you might feel unsafe.