A device denied network access by mobile carriers due to being reported lost, stolen, or associated with fraudulent activity is rendered unusable on most cellular networks. This prohibition effectively disables the phone’s ability to make calls, send texts, or use cellular data. For example, if a mobile phone is reported stolen to the carrier, the carrier may add the phone’s unique identifier (IMEI) to a shared database, preventing it from being activated on participating networks.
This measure serves to deter theft and combat fraud within the mobile industry. By rendering compromised devices unusable, the incentive for stealing or reselling them diminishes. Furthermore, it provides a level of protection for consumers and carriers alike, mitigating financial losses associated with fraudulent activities linked to these devices. The system evolved from simple lists shared between carriers to more sophisticated databases accessible across international borders.
