FCC to Kill Stolen Phones

New database will allow carriers to identify, shut down phones
By Kevin Spak,  Newser Staff
Posted Apr 10, 2012 11:41 AM CDT
FCC to Kill Stolen Phones
Damage to a mobile phone shop is seen in this file photo.   (Getty Images)

Pretty soon, a stolen cellphone will be "as worthless as an empty wallet," Charles Schumer boasted in a statement yesterday, touting a new deal between the FCC and major cellphone carriers that will allow the carriers to shut down pilfered phones. The FCC has agreed to set up a database of unique identifier numbers for every phone in America, the AP explains.

When a phone is reported stolen, carriers will be able to use that number to shut it down; until now, they've only been able to deactivate SIM cards, which can be swapped out, allowing the phone to be resold. Schumer is also introducing legislation making it a federal crime to tamper with a phone's ID number. By the NYPD's count, a whopping 42% of all property crimes in the city last year involved a phone. (Read more Charles Schumer stories.)

We use cookies. By Clicking "OK" or any content on this site, you agree to allow cookies to be placed. Read more in our privacy policy.
Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X