Now, you can check if you are buying a stolen mobile

If you are tempted by throwaway prices of second-hand cell phones but worried about their shady antecedents, Delhi Police has a solution. A web-based application developed by the police stores information about all stolen or missing mobile phones. All you have to do is type in the IMEI number of the phone you want to buy. If the phone has ever been stolen, it will be listed there.

The IMEI is a 15 or 17 digit number which includes information about the origin, model, and serial number of the device. It is usually found printed on the phone underneath the battery and can also be found by dialling the sequence *#06# and pressing the call button.

A search engine is provided for online verification of suspected mobile handsets. The contact number of the complainant will also published against each record and the police will be able to match the seized mobile handsets with theft or missing reports.

The database, a web-based module embedded with ZIPNET (Zonal Integrated Police Network), has been developed by the computer centre of Delhi Police’s crime branch.

Police say many stolen phones are often recycled in the grey market by cell phone dealers.

The police will also share the data with cellphone network providers. "This will enable the investigating officers to speed up recovery of the phones, discourage grey market operations and reduce cases of mobile theft substantially," said Muktesh Chander Additional Commissioner, Crime.

Email Abhishek Bhalla: abhishek.bhalla@hindustantimes.com
by hindustan times