What to Do When You Have Lost a Device
Losing a device can be frustrating, inconvenient, and costly. If your device's security is poor (e.g., no passcode or encryption), your data may be at risk. Since many devices can now make payments using your card details, quick action is necessary to minimize financial loss.
If you think your device has been stolen, err on the side of caution. If you manage to remotely locate your device, be very careful—approaching a criminal could put you in harm's way. It's best to work with the police. Additionally, cancel any linked cards and change the passwords on the device ASAP.
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Lost Device - Do This First!
Consider the Security of the Device: The security of your lost device greatly affects how secure your information is. If you didn't need a password to access the device, anyone who finds it can use it and access your information. If the security was low, quickly change the passwords of all accounts linked to the device, including email, social media, banking, cloud storage, and anything else that may give access to your data.
Use Your Tracking Software: Many devices now come with tracking software and features for when the device is lost or stolen. For example, if you've lost an iPhone, you can use Find My Phone to locate the device, put it into Lost Mode, and remotely erase your device. Check the following guidance:
Report It Missing: Report the device missing to the police. Provide details about the device (like the serial number) so they can monitor if it comes up on their systems. Also, report the loss to your mobile network provider, who can disable your account to prevent calls, texts, and data use.
Approaches to Dealing with a Lost Device
Change Passwords: Change the passwords for any internet accounts on your device. This ensures that if someone has access to your device, the apps will ask for the new password, preventing unauthorized access.
Keep Looking: Don't give up the search! Retrace your steps, check with the police, and check lost and found. There are also online services, like the Stolen Register, where you can search for your device's serial number to see if it has been found.
Insurance: If you have insurance for your device that covers loss or theft, contact your insurance provider as soon as possible and alert them to the situation. They will have a defined process for you to follow.
Use Your Cloud Accounts: Many accounts like Dropbox or Google may help you locate your device. If someone is using it and it's online, you can use your online accounts to find the current IP address, which may give you a town or street location. Log into your Google account and check account activity in settings.
Assume Your Data Has Been Exposed: If your device had sensitive information, assume it is now in someone else's possession. Plan for how to deal with this if it is used against you or posted online. Consider notifying anyone else who may also be impacted.
Be Prepared for Next Time
Password Protect Your Devices: Ensure all your devices are password protected with a strong password. This makes it difficult for someone who finds or steals your device to access your information.
Enable Encryption: Many devices like iPhones and iPads encrypt your data by default when password protected. For other devices, enable this feature, such as turning on File Vault for Macs. Review your device's security settings and enable key security features like encryption.
Tracking Software: Ensure features like Find My Device and Find My Phone are enabled. This will make a significant difference if you lose your device in the future.
Back-Up: Regularly back up your devices. This ensures you have a copy of your data and can start again quickly on a new device. While you may lose the device, you won't lose your data.
Keep a Copy of Key Device Details: Note key information about your devices, like serial and model numbers. This will be useful if you need to report them lost or stolen in the future.
