Senior executives from Apple and Google have clashed with UK police and MPs over proposals to combat rising mobile phone theft. Speaking to the Commons Science, Innovation, and Technology Committee, Met Police’s James Conway highlighted that two-thirds of London’s thefts now involve mobile phones, with up to 70% of knife crime linked to robbery.
Police urged tech firms to help block stolen devices using IMEI numbers—unique identifiers tied to each phone. The Met says IMEI blocking could significantly reduce resale value and criminal use. However, Apple and Google voiced concerns about fraud risks, stressing that bad actors could exploit IMEI blocking systems by falsely claiming ownership.
Apple’s Gary Davis warned of over 1,000 monthly fraud attempts targeting users, suggesting that blocking by IMEI alone was insufficient. Google’s Simon Wingrove echoed the need for broader industry collaboration, noting that current IMEI databases are maintained by network carriers and not suited for wider enforcement.
Police argued that 75% of stolen phones are moved abroad, with nearly a third ending up in China or Hong Kong. The Met called on cloud service providers to block stolen devices from accessing services, a request reportedly made since October 2023.
MPs expressed frustration, accusing the tech giants of dragging their feet. Lib Dem MP Martin Wrigley said firms had the power to act immediately but chose not to. Labour MP Chi Onwurah criticized the lack of a clear strategy beyond IMEI blocking.
Apple defended its Activation Lock feature, which ties device components to an Apple ID to prevent the resale of parts. Davis acknowledged IMEI blocking may be a “natural next step” but stressed the need for police to maintain traditional request procedures.
Despite recent updates like Android’s Theft Detection Lock and iPhone’s Stolen Device Protection, the debate underscores growing pressure on tech firms to take stronger action against phone theft.
