Stolen phone: locking and resale
Screen locks, Activation Lock and IMEI blocking protect different things.
A stolen phone can still be offered for resale. A lock may prevent reactivation, but it does not guarantee recovery or eliminate account risks. The situation changes if the device was unlocked or someone saw your passcode.
Unlocking the screen is different from reactivating a phone
A screen lock protects access to apps. Apple's Activation Lock and Android reset protection also affect setting up the phone after erasure. Carrier IMEI blocking concerns cellular service. These mechanisms do not replace one another.
iPhone: keep Activation Lock in place
Find My enables Activation Lock. Do not remove a stolen device from your account in response to a text: doing so may lift that protection. Open iCloud.com/find yourself to mark it as lost. See Apple's explanation of Activation Lock for the exact conditions.
Android: protection after a factory reset
A protected device may require the screen lock or a previously synced Google account after a reset, depending on how it was reset. This does not mean all data on a device that was already unlocked is inaccessible. Read Google's device protection conditions.
Why resale remains a risk
A phone may be offered to a buyer despite a lock, sold for parts or used in a scam. Do not assume a locked phone has no value. When buying used, ask the seller to demonstrate that the device is legitimately removed from their account and can be set up before paying.
A message asks you to remove the phone from your account?
Open the official service yourself. Do not provide passcodes or credentials. A message claiming the phone was recovered does not prove that Apple or Google contacted you.
What should you do now?
- Locate and lock the device using the official service.
- Contact your carrier to suspend the line and check IMEI blocking options.
- Review accounts and payment methods, especially if the phone was unlocked.
- Keep useful details for reporting. Follow our first steps after phone theft.
Frequently asked questions
Does blocking the IMEI erase my data?
No. An IMEI block concerns cellular network access. It does not by itself lock apps or locate the phone.
Does a lock prevent any resale?
No. A phone can still be offered for sale. Reactivation restrictions are different from a sale listing or the possible value of components.
Does a tether guarantee that a phone cannot be stolen?
No. A physical tether may reduce dropping and snatching risks alongside security settings and awareness. It does not replace Find My or Find Hub and is not a tracker.
Reduce everyday risks
Use a strong passcode, shield it from view, check finding settings and back up your data. For carrying the device, compare wrist straps and crossbody options for your activities.
See the current product page for price, compatibility and available options. No recovery or theft-proof guarantee is made.
Official sources
Apple: lost devices and removing from Find My · Apple: Activation Lock · Google: reset protection.