We ran across a very interesting infographic today called, “Lost and Found: The challenges of finding your lost or stolen phone.” It shows the top places you could lose your phone, along with the top cities for phone theft.
We’re startled at the number of free government cell phone owners who write to tell us their phone has been lost or stolen. And for those of you who have had this problem, we’ve got a page that might be able to help you:
Here’s the infographic. Click the image enlarge it.
Source: Lookout Mobile Security (broken link)
Danette T Pomodoro says
PLEASE TRY HELP ME LOCATE LOST COMMENT S (2) EARLIER 2DAY HERE IN COMMENT BOX A 2ND WAS LATER ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS POSED!!! EACH WAS COMPLETE AND ACCIDENTALLY WAS TAPPED NO!!! AND LOST OT DISSAPEARED!!!! HELP
STRESS!!
THANK YOU
Free Government Cell Phones says
Sorry, Danette, but we did not received any comments from you earlier today.
Tiara clah says
How can I find out who got in my account and stop my phone from working.
Free Government Cell Phones says
The first step is to contact your service provider’s customer service team.
Mary A Bjergum says
My phone was stolen but I don’t have the money to order a replacement phone right now. I would like to suspend the service temporarily until I can pay for the replacement phone. My qlink account number is 678****. I can be reached at 608 792 **** to better explain my situation.
Thank you, Mary Bjergum
Free Government Cell Phones says
You need to contact Q Link’s customer service team to see what they can do for you, Mary.
Dayvette says
Some one stole my phone
Free Government Cell Phones says
It was probably that guy who just moved in next door to us. He looks pretty shifty if you ask us.
Rodney Smothers says
I’ve been waiting on my phone for a while can you all tell me where my phone? My name is Rodney Smothers.
Free Government Cell Phones says
We cannot tell you, Rodney, because we are not your service provider. You need to contact the customer service team at the company you enrolled with. You can also check that company’s website to see if it offers a “Check Your Status” function.
Simone Bird says
I’ve lost my phone at my therapist’s office, but she has already left for the day and I can’t contact her. What should I do?
Free Government Cell Phones says
What’s the rush, Simone? Call her tomorrow. Is there a reason you can’t be without your free government cell phone overnight?
April gallegos says
I lost my phone can’t track it it’s dead I need a new one and need to shut off the one i lost
Free Government Cell Phones says
Contact your service provider’s customer service team, April. But be prepared to pay a reasonably small fee to get a replacement phone.
Kim janecek says
My cell phone stolen in Feb 2017 received it qlink in Dec 2016 I call every month tell them stolen in veteran on 836 a month they won’t shut it off want me pay 25 dollar for replacement and they upgraded to smart phone metro pcs 30 dollars a month unlimited talk text 2 g data is cheaper this is not life line it b’s still my year up this month they brrnbgiving the their all my mom now still say 25 dollars I scream every month thank u for my military service where the justice
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s what you need to do, Kim. Contact the USAC and the other organizations discussed in this article, which will tell you exactly how to get some action by filing formal complaints:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/file-official-complaint-about-your-lifeline-service
Cynthia Santo says
My phone was stolen the number for my life line phone is 760 695 ****. It is till in use I know this because I’ve called it I need it turned off. You can reach me at 760 504 ****.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Contact your service provider’s customer service team, Cynthia. They can take care of your problem.
Walter says
My phone was stolen by my girlfriend she will not return it and it is still active
Free Government Cell Phones says
We hope she’s now your ex-girlfriend, Walter. Contact your service provider’s customer service team and explain the situation. They will tell you what to do next.
Gregory Allan Smith says
I DON’T KNOW MY NUMBER, BUT PLEASE DEACTIVATE MT STOLEN SMART PHONE, AND LET ME KNOW WHEN i SHOULD RECEIVE MY NEW PHONE.
THANKS.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You need to contact your service provider’s customer service team, Gregory.
Jennifer Nicole Buffum says
My name is jennifer Buffum I had my qlink phone stolen it sucks cause I payed $90 for it, but now do I have to pay that same amount again to get the same phone or how does this work and can u please turn the phone off because there changing my passwords responding to emails and even calling people in contacts to be funny, ugh.. please help and disconnect my phone service until I figure out what to do next or please tell me if u know what I am supposed to do my number, is (253) 202-**** thanks again this is jennifer Buffum with qlink wireless (253) 202-****
Free Government Cell Phones says
We’re not your service provider, Jennifer. We’re not anyone’s service provider. This is an independent informational website. You need to contact your service provider to cancel your account.
tanio says
I lost my phone. Please. Turn it off
Free Government Cell Phones says
We are NOT your service provider, Tanio, so we cannot turn off your phone. You need to contact your service provider’s customer service team.
Jace Isakson says
I lost my phone please turn it off. (509) 851-****
Free Government Cell Phones says
This is an independent informational website, NOT your service provider, Jace. So we cannot turn your phone off. You need to contact your service provider’s customer service team.
Laquinta Truesdale says
My phone was stolen plz turn it off 2158889105
Free Government Cell Phones says
We can’t turn it off, Laquinta, because we are not your service provider. We’re an independent informational website. Contact your service provider directly.
Doris Austin says
My phone is lost please turn it off 323 787 ****
Free Government Cell Phones says
We can’t turn your phone off because we’re not your service provider, Doris. This is an independent informational website. You need to contact your service provider’s customer service team.
Barbara Burt says
Lost my phone please turn it off
509 475 ****
Free Government Cell Phones says
We can’t turn it off because we’re not your service provider, Barbara. You need to contact your service provider’s customer service team ASAP.
Brittany wing says
I had gotten a QLink government phone awhile back. August of 2016 maybe a few weeks after getting my phone it stopped working. I called and spoke with them and told them what happened and also de-enrolled myself from the service. Well about 5 to 7 months ago I noticed my phones and services from at&t also with Verizon has been not working properly to the devices full potential. I accessed my q link account and noticed that the number and q link services are still being used. I have not used q link services since August of 2016 someone has gotten access to the number and or switched devices to be able to use the number and keep the service on. How can I find out where and possibly who it is and what can I do about this problem?
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s an article that tells you what to do in case of free government cell phone fraud, Brittany. And this definitely qualifies as fraud.
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/report-lifeline-assistance-fraud-abuse-waste
Contact your service provider’s customer service team ASAP.
Briauuna Stoke says
This phone been stole n can u cut it off? The number is 662 641 ****.
Briauuna Stoke says
Her name is Mercedes
Free Government Cell Phones says
What? That damn Mercedes stole another free government cell phone. Damn her.
Free Government Cell Phones says
We cannot cut if off, Briauuna, because we are an independent website not your free government cell phone service provider. You need to contact that company by phone or online.
Lovette Farrington says
LOST MY PHONE, NEED ANOTHER ONE PLEASE.MY NUMBER 954-410-****
Free Government Cell Phones says
Read this article to find out everything you need to know, Lovette:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/i-lost-my-phone-how-do-i-get-a-replacement
Donald Patton says
I lost my phone. my number is 214-677-*****. can l get a new phone please? Donald Patton BrithDate **-**-****
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s an article that tells you what to do if your phone is lost:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/i-lost-my-phone-how-do-i-get-a-replacement
Candice says
Joshua Micheal ***** birthday 10 15 **** STOLE my government phone and account information that was sent to 6117 *******. can u please turn the phone off because he stole it and is Using it
Free Government Cell Phones says
We cannot turn your phone off, Candice, because we are an independent website, not a free government cell phone company. You must contact your service provider’s customer service team to report the theft. Here’s an article that tells you more:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/i-lost-my-phone-how-do-i-get-a-replacement
Victor V says
While I was at the Dr. Office someone stole my phone I was trying to speak or contact a representive but I wasn’t able my phone# 646-721-**** I would like another as soon as you can send me one I will appreciate it very much my home address is *******************, Thank you
Free Government Cell Phones says
We’re not a Lifeline service provider, Victor. We’re an independent website that specializes in news about the Lifeline program. If you need to get your free government cell phone replaced, you need to contact your service provider’s customer service team by phone or online.
MMartha Gilliam says
Please, I’m needing help .. I have tried getting my phone that I’m due for? But, can’t.. Please can’t you help me out here? My other phone tore up,.. But,I was way more pass due for a new one.. Please help me here.. Thank you bunches!
Free Government Cell Phones says
You need to give us more details, Martha. Our first suggestion, without knowing more about your individual case, would be that you should contact your service provider’s customer service team by phone or online.
margaret mcintosh says
I lost my phone. the #315 719 ****
Free Government Cell Phones says
Here’s an article that will tell you what to do about that lost phone, Margaret:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/i-lost-my-phone-how-do-i-get-a-replacement
Danny Lark says
I lost my q link phone the number is 254 371 ****. I would like to have the phone turned off.
Free Government Cell Phones says
Read this article, Danny. It will tell you exactly what you need to do:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/i-lost-my-phone-how-do-i-get-a-replacement
KKami Baker says
My phone was stolen n I would like it shutt off ASAP!! My # is (208)404-****, Kami Baker,email: ******@gmail.com. I know the first names only of who stole it & have tried to repetitively, let them know this is a govt phone n to return my phone,& no response for days I’ve tried to reach them & tell them they r committing a crime of federal theft charges n they don’t care n don’t respond!! Please let me know what to do further from here,after shutting it off, how do I receive a new one,n how long will that take?
Free Government Cell Phones says
First, here’s an article about reporting fraud and abuse:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/report-lifeline-assistance-fraud-abuse-waste
And here’s an article about getting a replacement phone:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/i-lost-my-phone-how-do-i-get-a-replacement
Karma36 says
My cell phone don’t allow me to make any text and calls I can’t receive calls and text either… Is asking for for the Sim card code and for the Puk code to unblock … I have more then a month like this trying to feguire out how to fix this problem I stop trying… this is so stressful there’s no way to call directly customer service number 0 or 1 is not program to easily get any customer service at all please help my cell phone don’t have any information of the cell phone provide..don’t remember the name nothing. I went at the spot they would put there little cellphone business.. Haven’t they haven’t showed up on that same spot were I had gone my cell phone..
Free Government Cell Phones says
Call 6-1-1 on your free government cell phone, Karma. You will connected directly to customer service.
Othel says
I used every email address. i don’t know anymore. my phone was stolen. i am trying to get help with another one or cut the phone off. if i can’t get another one it keep saying my email address is valid or invalid. i don’t understand. this is my email address
Free Government Cell Phones says
It’s as if this article was written just for you, Othel. The subject of the article is “what to do if your free government cell phone is lost, stolen or broken.” Maybe this will help:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/i-lost-my-phone-how-do-i-get-a-replacement
Greg says
My child got my phone took it outside and I do believe he sat it down & it was stolen. I was trying to find a way to deactivate it
Free Government Cell Phones says
Contact your service provider’s customer service team, Greg.
Mario watkins says
My phone was stolen 2 weeks ago. i texted and asked you all to cut the service off. its still on. 10/25/16 314 393-****
Free Government Cell Phones says
You didn’t text us, Mario, because we are not your service provider. We’re an independent website. You need to contact your service provider directly by phone or online.
Faith Cox says
My phone was stolen and I gotta pay 25 dollars for a new phone. I don’t think so
Thomas Turbeville says
Ashley B****** took my phone and is going down the list of contacts and telling peaple misinformation about me and my character. She is an evil 23 yr old young lady who I fell for over two years back. Please I would prosecute if given opportunity. She also is a petty thief.
Free Government Cell Phones says
You gotta watch out for girls like Ashley B******, Thomas. It was probably easy to fall for her because she was so young and pretty, but you gotta look for one with a good heart next time. Here are two things you should do about your phone:
1. Cancel your free government cell phone immediately. Call your service provider and tell them the same story you told us. Here’s an article that tells you how to get a replacement phone:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/i-lost-my-phone-how-do-i-get-a-replacement
1. Report her for fraud. Here’s an article that tells you how to do it:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/report-lifeline-assistance-fraud-abuse-waste
tony gunn says
Turn my phone off please I lost it and I don’t want it back
carla cole says
i lost my cell phone
FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net says
For a replacement for a lost, stolen or broken phone, please read this page:
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/i-lost-my-phone-how-do-i-get-a-replacement
rose valentine says
Someone stole my phone please turn it off ! Can I get a replacement? If so how? Thank you very much. Rose Valentine
Free Government Cell Phones says
You need to contact your cell phone company.
Shakeya Buchanan says
I believe my phone was stolen, I call the number and get an answer,- All I want done is to cut it off.
It is an ALCATEL free government phone. the phone number is *** *** ****.
MY ADDRESS IS **** ********** STREET
SOUTH BEND INDIANA 46628
I can be reached at *** *** **** my grandmothers phone
the email address above is my grandmothers, please turn phone off. thank you
(note from FreeGovernmentCellPhones.net administrator: DO NOT ENTER PERSONAL INFORMATION HERE)
Rosetta Whitman says
I do not have a computer i have lost my phone I need a phone . I have two children and no way to communicate.
Vickie Fair says
I have lost my phone been searching for 2 days now, tried calling my phone on my dad’s phone an it goes straight to voice mail, I would like to cancel my phone an get a replacement phone please…I have no phone to call, I use my phone for doctors appointments, Please let me know what to do. The phone number to my lost phone is ***-485-3534, Its a assurance wireless phone. Thank you for your time.
jme says
My Sister’s car was stolen- in it was my Government cell phone. The car is back, but my cell-phone was taken. Is there a way I can get a replacement??? I have the cord and the phone was out of charge when it was taken. Have tried calling the number, but only get a busy tone. I have tried calling the company that has my coverage, but wasn’t able to get a real person to speak to. It hung up on me at the end every time.
Letitia Jackson says
I lost my phone , how do I go about getting a new one .? Please send me information on getting a new phone ..thank you
Lloyd Robinson says
I AM UNABLE TO SPEAK VERY WELL SO YOU COULD’NT UNDERSTAND ME IF I CALL YOU , I MISPLACE MY PHONE I LOST MY PHONE ON THE FIRST ON A SATURDAY I AM INEED OF MY PHONE PLEASE TELL ME WHAT TO DO TO GET A RE PLACEMENT
John says
I received mail stating I have not received my minutes this month (May), I lost the phone. I have been trying since first part of May to report it but every phone number I called and every site I went on line no one answered and none of the links allowed me to leave a message about my lost phone. If someone is answering these comments, please email me about how I can know that my lost phone report has been received.
betty toomer says
thanks. misplaced cell phone or stolen> need a replacement.
betty toomer says
misplaced cell phone or stolen? nedd a replacement.
eve says
I lost my phone please help me i live alone and it is a security for me I am disabled so help please respond
Christopher Moore says
I lost my phone and request a replacement phone. My member number is ********, phone # ***-339-3612.
Sherry Anderson says
I lost my phone and wanted to apply for a new one
Thank you Sherry Anderson
kathietorrey says
I broke my phone and i would like another one. My address is 6204 first St. Mayville, Michign 48744.
antonya morgan says
my boyfriend has stolen my phone i will like all storage profiles deleted and i will like a notice of all number that were outgoing/incoming to this number …thank you…
48woody says
I lost my phone. I cannot email you without the phone serial number. How do I get the serial number if I don’t have the phone? Are you stupid??
michael glancy says
I AM DISABLED AND BARELY Make It IN LIFE AS IT IS ! AS A MATTER A FACT , IM A DISABLED VET… I REALLY NEEDED MY PHONE ! THEN WHILE SLEEPING ,SOMEONE STOLE MY PHONE . All OTHER STATE PHONE PLANS HELP WITH A ONE TIME REPLACEMENT PHONE ,WUTS Up WITH The REACHOut PHONE PLAN ……
christa mayes says
i have tried and tried to sign for free goverment phone but it wont let me how do i do this hole thing?
Beverly Yarbroughrowe says
i lost my phone a week ago, i have been trying to reach ,reachoutwireless,
they will not answer the phone, i don’t know what to do ,i just on 5/14/2012
renewed my certifacation with life line.
I don’t know what to do, can some one help me.
patricia c bivens says
my phone assurance doesn,t work in the area i moved to and also i lost or someone took my phone,i dont have the number but you can reach me at423-241-0480, please turn off free service and notifi me please, benton tn. moved from sweetwater tn.
walter l gelts jr says
lost my phone outside in the snow when i was running the snow blower i think the snow blower got it
talissa gant says
i moved to another town .from ct to north carolina and i think someone stole my phone. while i was traveling from one town to another. so i would like to know if i can get another phone for free. i donot have any money.thank you so very much.have a great day!
teacoka gray says
I lost my reachout phone…i had the verizon phone with the camera…
Free Government Cell Phones says
https://www.freegovernmentcellphones.net/faq/i-lost-my-phone-how-do-i-get-a-replacement
tammy spivey says
i have food stamps. my address is 247 old airport rd lot 6 newport nc 28750. i had a free safelink phone and lost it. i also have a assurance wireless phone doesnt have camera. if i can get the one with camera and free min. that would be fine. thank you for your time