Losing your phone or having it stolen can be stressful, especially when you realise how much personal information is stored on it. From banking apps and email accounts to social media profiles and saved payment details, your device is often the hub of your digital life.
 

If it falls into the wrong hands, criminals may attempt to access your accounts or personal data. Acting quickly is critical. By taking the right steps as soon as possible, you can secure your accounts, protect your information, and reduce the risk of financial or identity fraud.

Step 1: Try to Locate Your Device

Before assuming your device is gone for good, try using built-in tracking tools that can help you locate it. Most modern devices include location services you can access remotely: 

• Apple: Find My 

• Android: Find My Device 

• Windows: Microsoft Device Finder via your Microsoft account
   

These tools can show the last known location of your device on a map. If it appears nearby, you may also be able to play a sound to help locate it. Even if the device is no longer online, checking the last recorded location can provide useful clues.

Step 2: Lock Your Device Remotely

If you can’t immediately recover your device, the next step is to lock it remotely.

Both Apple and Android devices allow you to activate Lost Mode or a remote lock. This prevents anyone from accessing the device without your passcode.
 

Some services also allow you to: 

• Display a custom message on the lock screen. 

• Provide a contact number so someone can return the device if it’s found.  

Step 3: Change Your Passwords Immediately

If your device had accounts logged in, it’s important to change your passwords as soon as possible. 

Start with the most critical accounts: 

• Email accounts (these often control password resets) 

• Banking and financial apps 

• Apple ID, Google, or Microsoft accounts 

• Social media platforms
   

Once you’ve updated your passwords, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible. This adds an extra layer of protection by requiring a second verification step when signing in.

Step 4: Contact Your Bank

If your device had banking apps installed or stored payment details, contact your bank to let them know your device has been lost or stolen. 

Your bank may recommend steps such as: 

• Monitoring your accounts for unusual activity 

• Temporarily locking cards 

• Updating security settings 

Step 5: Watch for Signs of Account or Identity Misuse

After losing a device, stay alert for any signs that someone may be trying to access your accounts. 

Warning signs can include: 

• Unexpected login alerts 

• Password reset emails you didn’t request 

• Unauthorised transactions
   

If you notice anything unusual, act quickly by securing the affected accounts and contacting the relevant service provider.

Protecting Your Devices Going Forward

Losing a device can happen to anyone, but taking a few precautions can make recovery easier and reduce potential risks. 

Consider: 

• Enabling device tracking features before you need them 

• Using strong passwords and two-factor authentication
   

Taking these steps now can help minimise the impact if a device is ever lost or stolen.