Lost or Stolen Mobile? Here's How 1,812 Phones Were Recovered Using Government’s Sanchar Saathi Portal – Learn How You Can Benefit Too

Lost Your Phone? You Might Get It Back – Over 1,800 Mobiles Recovered via Sanchar Saathi and CEIR in One Year

If you’ve ever lost your smartphone or had it stolen, here’s some encouraging news: the Indian government is actively helping citizens recover their lost or stolen mobile phones using the Sanchar Saathi portal and the Centralized Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) system. According to a recent update from the Ministry of Communications, over 1,812 mobile phones have been successfully traced and returned to their rightful owners within the last year. Just in June 2025, 151 mobile devices were recovered using this technology-driven initiative.

Let’s understand how this system works and how you can use it to find your lost or stolen mobile.

What is the Sanchar Saathi Portal?

The Sanchar Saathi Portal is a digital platform launched by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India, to enhance mobile user safety and awareness. Through this portal, users can:

• Block and trace lost or stolen mobile phones

• View all SIM cards issued in their name

• Identify and disconnect unauthorized or fake connections

• Check whether a second-hand mobile device is genuine or cloned before purchasing

This service is accessible to everyone and acts as a central hub for mobile-related grievance redressal and security.

What is the CEIR System?

The Centralized Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) is a backend system that identifies lost or stolen mobile phones using their IMEI number (a unique 15-digit code assigned to every mobile device). Once a phone is reported stolen, its IMEI number is blocked across all Indian telecom networks, making it unusable even with a new SIM card.

Here’s how it works:

1. The user reports a lost or stolen device on the Sanchar Saathi portal.

2. The IMEI number, a copy of the police complaint (FIR), and personal identification (Aadhaar or PAN) are submitted.

3. After verification with telecom operators and the police, the system blocks the device on all networks.

4. If someone tries to use the phone with a new SIM card, law enforcement can trace the location.

5. Once the mobile is found, the user can request to unblock it on the same portal.

How Effective Is the System?

According to official government data, in just one year, 1,812 devices were recovered through Sanchar Saathi and CEIR. This figure includes 151 phones retrieved in June 2025 alone, highlighting the system's growing success and effectiveness in combating mobile theft.

With such numbers, it's clear that the Sanchar Saathi initiative is not just a symbolic gesture—it’s making a real impact in enhancing digital safety and user empowerment.

How to Download the Sanchar Saathi App?

Using the platform is simple and accessible to all. Here's how to get started:

• Android users: Download from the Google Play Store

• iPhone users: Download from the Apple App Store

• Alternatively, visit the Sanchar Saathi Website and scan the QR code to install the app

After installation, you will need to log in using your mobile number to access the services.

Steps to Track or Block a Lost Phone

If your phone is lost or stolen, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Sanchar Saathi portal or app

2. Select the option to “Block Lost/Stolen Mobile”

3. Fill in details like:

   • IMEI number

   • Brand and model

   • Last known location

   • Police complaint/FIR number

   • Contact number

4. Upload a copy of your Aadhaar or PAN card for identity verification

5. Submit the request and note your Request ID for future reference

If the phone is recovered, revisit the portal, enter the Request ID and your contact details, and follow the process to unblock the device.

Final Thoughts: A Smarter Way to Tackle Mobile Theft

The recovery of over 1,800 mobile phones in just a year is a significant milestone in India's fight against mobile theft. Through a combination of technology, real-time tracking, and collaboration with telecom and police authorities, the Sanchar Saathi portal and CEIR system have proven to be invaluable.

So, if you ever find yourself in the unfortunate situation of losing your phone, don’t panic. The government now has your back—you just need to act quickly, follow the right steps, and leverage this powerful digital tool.