Protect Your Phone: Irish Users Urged to Dial *#06# Amid Rising Theft and Financial Fraud

Irish mobile phone users are being strongly advised to take a simple step to protect their devices and financial information following a surge in phone thefts. Gardaí, along with tech experts, are urging individuals to dial a specific code on their phones to obtain a unique identifier that can be used to block the device if lost or stolen.

Increase in Mobile Phone Theft

Over 5,850 mobile phones were reported stolen across Ireland in 2024, with the average value of a stolen device exceeding €650 in early 2025. Authorities report that thieves are increasingly targeting phones not just for resale, but to gain access to users’ financial information. Source

How to Discover Your IMEI Number

To protect your phone, Gardaí recommend the following:

• Dial *#06# on your phone.
• A 15-digit code will appear – this is your IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number.
• Take a screenshot of the IMEI number.
• Email the screenshot to yourself for safekeeping.

The IMEI number acts as a unique “fingerprint” for your smartphone or tablet. Source

What to Do If Your Phone Is Lost or Stolen

If your mobile phone is lost or stolen, it is crucial to take immediate action:

• Report the theft to An Garda Síochána.
• Contact your mobile service provider to have your IMEI number blocked. This will prevent the device from being used. Source

Increased Garda Powers for Phone Surveillance

In related news, Gardaí are set to receive new powers to monitor mobile phone activity as part of efforts to combat crime. New legislation will allow the leverage of software to access encrypted messaging services, such as WhatsApp. Source This move, while intended to aid in investigations, has raised concerns about potential privacy implications. Source

Search Warrants and Mobile Phone Investigations

Recent court cases have similarly highlighted the use of search warrants for mobile phones during Garda investigations. Search warrants were executed at Garda stations and private residences as part of investigations into potential perversion of justice. Source

Additional Resources

For more information on what to do if your phone is stolen, visit the Garda website: https://www.garda.ie/en/crime/burglary-theft/my-mobile-phone-has-been-stolen-how-do-i-try-to-get-it-back-.html