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AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster
# Q-tip
You should take down this smartphone code when you get the chance
If your phone is stolen, then it will certainly come in handy.
NOBODY EVER WANTS to think that their phone might go missing or get stolen, but it happens and if it does, you want to be prepared.
We’ve spoken before about having Find my Phone activated so you can do a remote wipe or locate it if it’s lost, but another important thing to have handy is a 15-digit code.
All smartphones have an IMEI (International Mobile Station Equipment Identity) number that is a bit like a PPS number for your phone.
Why would you need it? For one, if your phone was stolen or robbed, you will be able to get your network to blacklist it and lock it out of the network. It can also be useful if you’re getting it repaired as it will likely be needed to identify it as well as warranty.
The quickest way to see it is to go into your phone app and dial *#06# and your IMEI number will pop up.
Alternatively, you can go into Settings > General > About on iOS or Settings > About > Phone Identity on Android to find the same details.
As well as the IMEI number, you can also see your phone’s serial number too, another handy number to take down.
Write them down and store them in a safe place. Or if you have the right security measures in place, take a screenshot of them and save them in a place that isn’t easily accessible.
Read: Somebody is trying to sell almost 33 million Twitter passwords on the dark web >
Read: Google has greatly improved one of the iPhone’s forgotten features >
