Losing a mobile phone or realising that it has been stolen can be stressful and overwhelming. Apart from the cost of the device, there is always the fear of personal data being misused. To address this issue, the Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) Portal, operated by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), allows users in India to block their lost or stolen mobile phones and prevent unauthorised usage.
What You Need Before Blocking Your Phone
Before starting the blocking process, keep the following details ready to avoid delays:
You will need the IMEI number of your mobile phone. This can be found by dialling *#06#, checking the device box, or referring to the purchase invoice.
A police complaint or FIR registered for the lost or stolen mobile phone is mandatory.
You will also need a valid identity proof, such as Aadhaar card or PAN card.
Keep access to the mobile number previously used in the device, or at least one of them, as it will be required to receive an OTP for verification.
Step-by-Step Process to Block Your Phone via the CEIR Portal
Visit the official CEIR website at ceir.gov.in, or access it through the Sanchar Saathi Portal.
On the homepage, select the option that says “Block Stolen/Lost Mobile”.
Fill in the required details carefully, including the mobile number(s) linked to the device and the IMEI number(s) of the lost or stolen phone.
Enter the brand and model of the mobile phone. Upload the purchase invoice if the system asks for it.
Provide details such as the date and place of loss or theft, along with the police station name, complaint number, and upload a copy of the police complaint.
Next, enter your personal details, including your name, address, email ID, and identity proof number.
Enter a mobile number that will receive the OTP. Click on Get OTP, verify it, and submit the form.
Once submitted, a Request ID will be generated. Save this ID, as it will be required to track the status of your request.
After submission, the CEIR system will block the IMEI of your device, making the phone unusable on all Indian telecom networks.
What Happens After You Submit the Request
You can track the status of your request on the CEIR portal using the Request ID or complaint number.
If your phone is recovered later, you can apply for unblocking the device through the same portal by submitting the un-block request form.
It is important to note that the CEIR Portal does not track or locate your phone. Its purpose is to disable the device from being used on mobile networks and prevent misuse.
Why Blocking Your Phone Through CEIR Is Important
Blocking a lost or stolen phone through the CEIR Portal helps protect your personal data and prevents unauthorised use of the device. It also assists law enforcement by ensuring that the handset becomes inactive and traceable if someone tries to use it on Indian telecom networks.
With a simple online process, the CEIR Portal gives users a reliable way to regain control and secure their information during a difficult situation.
