Handset register as anti-theft device

A SCHEME that registers all mobile phones so that the true owners can then be traced will soon be offered in the UK. Known as Secure@phone, it's either a jolly good idea or some kind of elaborate con trick.

The concept is very simple. All GSM handsets have a unique identifier number - its IMEI number. All you do is provide Secure@phone with the make, model and IMEI number of your phone.

If it is found they send it back to you. For this service you're charged $6 via Paypal or credit card.

The problem is that there's very little information provided by the scheme's two promoters - Calvin Craig and Ellie Rampton. The operation appears to be based in Hong Kong.

The scheme has apparently been rolled out across Asia and Africa and is coming to the UK any time now. Trouble is, most UK Police forces offer the same kind of service anyway.

Secure@phone hopes to be different by urging all their brand outlets to send any lost and found handsets to them.

Which is great but what do they do with them after they can't be traced? Sell them on? Sounds very dodgy. µ

L'INQ Secure@phone