Tracing stolen or lost mobile phones is set to become more efficient in Tamil Nadu as the state’s Cyber Crime Wing collaborates with the Department of Telecommunications to employ the Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) portal. This portal enables individuals to report their lost or stolen mobile devices, aiding in their recovery across pan-India telecom networks.
By utilizing the CEIR portal, both the police and the public can request the blocking of the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number associated with the stolen or lost device, effectively rendering it unusable for illegal activities. The IMEI number is blocked within 24 hours of the request, preventing any further use of the handset.
Notifications are sent to network providers and authorities if the blocked IMEI is attempted to be used with a SIM card, facilitating the recovery of lost or stolen mobiles. As part of this effort, CEIR login IDs are being issued to police stations, and approximately 1,300 out of 1,800 stations across the state have already been covered.