Police develop system to track stolen mobiles

The measure is an attempt to discourage purchase and sale of stolen handsets

NEW DELHI: Those buying second hand mobile phones in the capital will now be able to verify whether the handsets are stolen or not, thanks to a new web-enabled system installed by the Delhi Police. The novel system compiles information unique to every mobile handset and makes its available on Delhi police's website (www.delhipolice.nic.in) which can be accessed by general public.

Police officials can register details like the unique 'IMEI' number of stolen handsets and contact number of the complainant into the database which can be accessed by the public. Prospective buyers can match the details of the handset with the information given on the website to find out whether it was a stolen product.

Investigating officers will also be able to match the seized mobile handsets with theft cases and missing reports. Periodically, the data from the web module shall be provided to cell phone network operators to track the stolen mobiles.

The IMEI number consists of 15 to 17 digits and provides information about the origin, model and serial number of the handset. It is usually printed underneath the battery and can also be found out by dialling *#06# on the phone. Senior police officials said the measure was an attempt to discourage purchase and sale of stolen mobile handsets.