How to Verify if a Verizon Phone Is Lost or Stolen (3 Steps)

By Christina Sloane

i Polka Dot RF/Polka Dot/Getty Images

Purchasing a Verizon phone second hand can save money, but a lost or stolen phone won't be able to send or receive calls or texts. To control theft, Verizon gives customers the option to suspend service when they report their phones lost or stolen, and only the original customer may reactivate the phone. If you suspect your Verizon phone to be lost or stolen, a customer service representative can help you find out for sure.

Step 1

Find the phone’s electronic serial number located in the battery compartment under the battery or in the phone’s menu under “Phone Info.” Write down the number.

Step 2

Call Verizon customer service from a Verizon cell phone at *611, or from any phone at 800-922-0204. You may also speak to a service representative at your local Verizon store.

Step 3

Give the ESN number to the customer service representative. The representative will check for the number in Verizon’s lost and stolen database and can tell you whether the phone has been reported lost or stolen.

Writer Bio