[BlackberryLive]

So my phone was stolen and I'm still a little miffed about it. Is there a way to report it stolen so that some can't use it? Do cell companies even care if its stolen so long as they are getting someone's monthly payment? I was hoping there was a registry that would render the device useless when the phone registered on the network. It was password protected...will that lock ever go away even after they wipe it?


Sorry for the rambling...

[shahzadk007]

If it was password protected then don't worry about piracy of your data. Its not easy to crack the password; and after 10 Wrong password tries, the device will be automatically wiped.
If you have the IMEI number of the BB Device and the cellular companies in your country are helpful enough, then they can help you out to find approximately the exact location of the user who is using that device.( Regardless of the data plan). Because in Pakistan the cellular companies can locate your cell phone user, appoximately in a 500 meters radius, but the security agencies have forbade them to help public. It can be a security threat to cell phone users who are not using stolen cell phones. I am not sure about the policies in your country.
As far as the reporting of stolen sets is concerned; you have to search for the Telecom Authority. In Pakistan there is a central telecom governing body, called PTA (Pakistan Telecommunication Authority), the reporter has Enter the IMEI number of their stolen cell phone on their portal and after a week of inquiry and confirmation they block the stolen cell phone.
But you know their are some great firmware crackers in Pakistan, they can change the IMEI of the stolen cells and make them functional again.
Hope this discussion answers all your queries and might be helpful.

[Motorcycle Mama]

If it was password locked, then once they enter the password incorrectly the appropriate number of time (by default 10 times), the device will be wiped.

It will, however, be unlocked as far as the password goes.

In the US, GSM carriers typically will not block IMEI numbers of stolen devices, unfortunately.

[Dubdub]

Make sure you report it to your carrier as soon as possible. You are liable for all charges up until that time.

Some carriers will blacklist a device and it cannot be activated, others do not. I think Verizon and Sprint do, not sure about ATT and TMo however. Just ask ATT when you report it.

[ezrunner]

Wirelessly posted (well lookie here!)

Generally GSM providers do not block because the service is tied to your sim card and not the device itself

[rambo47]

If you leave it on your old BIS accout they won't be able to get BlackBerry data services on AT&T. They will, however, be able to use it for voice calls and SMS. Reporting it stolen but leaving it tied to your old account will make any sale of the device more difficult. Any buyer won't get the data services he most likely desires and may make a stink with the thief/seller.