What to Do If You Lose Your Phone

Losing your phone can be scary — not just because of the device, but because of everything stored on it.

Here’s what to do right away:

Step 1: Try calling or texting your phone

Someone may have found it and wants to return it.

Step 2: Use “Find My Device”

Both Android and iPhone let you track, lock or erase your phone remotely:

• iPhone: iCloud.com → Find iPhone

• Android: Google Find My Device

You can:

• Locate your phone on a map

• Play a sound (even on silent!)

• Lock it with a message

• Erase all your data remotely if needed

Step 3: Secure your accounts

Change passwords for:

• Your email

• Social media

• Online banking

Especially if your phone didn’t have a lock screen or biometric protection.

Step 4: Report it

• Contact your mobile carrier to block the SIM card

• Report the loss to the police (especially for insurance purposes)

Pro tip: Be prepared!

Before anything happens:

• Enable a screen lock (PIN, fingerprint, or face ID)

• Turn on Find My Device features

• Keep your important info backed up (photos, contacts, etc.)