HTC recognizes that the theft of smartphones and other mobile devices is an important issue for its customers. While we are continuing our efforts to collaborate with our partners in the wireless industry and the public safety community
to deter and reduce phone theft
, we urge all of our customers themselves to take appropriate steps to improve the security of their devices and data.
What you can do now to improve the security of your device and data:
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Set a screen lock
. A screen lock is designed to help to protect your personal information and help prevent others from using your mobile device without your express permission. To learn how to set a screen lock, visit the
HTC support page
for your device (type in the name of your device below “Find Your HTC Product” and select your device from the resulting menu, select the “Security” or “Settings and security” heading on the device support page, then select the appropriate topic from the menu on the left side of the page).
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Consider installing a security application
. Many mobile apps are available to enhance the security of mobile devices. These security-related apps are often available for free or at a low price and can provide the capability to remotely lock, locate, or wipe your device. You can find more information on security apps on
CTIA’s consumer tips on smartphone theft deterrence
page.
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Back up your data
. Many users store valuable data on their smartphones, including photos, videos, and contacts, so backing up your data in case your smartphone is lost, damaged, or stolen is a good practice. To learn how to back up your data, visit the
HTC support page
for your device (type in the name of your device below “Find Your HTC Product” and select your device from the resulting menu, select the “Sync and Backup” or “Sync, backup, and reset” heading on the device support page, then select the appropriate topic from the menu on the left side of the page).
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Set a SIM PIN
. Many HTC devices support the use of a personal identification number (PIN) to lock your SIM card. Setting the SIM PIN may help to prevent people from accessing your cellular voice or mobile data services without authorization. Once the SIM PIN is set, you must enter your SIM PIN whenever you restart your device or whenever you move the SIM card to another device. To learn how to set a SIM PIN, visit the
HTC support page
for your device (type in the name of your device below “Find Your HTC Product” and select your device from the resulting menu, select the “Security” or “Settings and security” heading on the device support page, then select “Assigning a PIN to help protect your SIM Card” from the menu on the left side of the page).
What to do if your device is lost or stolen:
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Report the loss to your wireless provider as soon as possible
. If your device is lost or stolen, immediately notify your wireless provider so that they can suspend service to your device. See the FCC’s page on
How to Report a Lost or Stolen Mobile Device
for more information.
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Remotely locate, lock, or wipe your device using a security app
. If you have installed a security app (see above) you may be able to use it to remotely locate, lock, or wipe your device. Follow the instructions provided with the app or contact the app provider for more information.
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Report phone theft to the police
. If your phone has been stolen, you may wish to report the theft of your device to your local police department.
Find more information about how to deter theft and protect your data at CTIA’s
consumer tips page.