There’s hope yet for those who have lost or had their handsets stolen. 

Though their IMEI numbers, phones can be traced and often returned to their owners.

Each phone has a unique identification number assigned to it. 

This International Mobile Equipment Identity number can be used to track a handset anywhere, at any time.

 Users can access their IMEI number by dialing *#06#. 

It is advisable to note down this number and keep it safe.

In case of a theft or loss of a handset, the first thing a user should do is launch a FIR with the police.

 One copy of the FIR, along with the handset’s IMEI number, should then be given to the user’s service provider.

The service provider can trace the phone based on its unique ID number. 

Even if the handset is being used with a different Sim card, it is still traceable.

 In fact, even if a Sim card is not activated on the phone, it can be tracked since the IMEI can be identified across platforms and areas.

Once the phone is traced, the police should be able to retrieve it. 

A user can even request the service provider to block the handset so that it cannot be used by anyone else.

In order to be able to track a device in case it is stolen or lost, it is recommended that a user source out its IMEI number as soon as it is bought.

 Of course, this number should then be kept safe yet handy since a mobile’s unique IMEI number is the best hope a user has of tracking and retrieving it in case it is lost or stolen.