Step-by-step instructions
Check immediate safety and last known location
If it might have been misplaced, check with family, the transport operator or the location where you last used it. Do not enter private premises or confront someone solely because an online map shows a nearby dot. A device location is approximate, and police should handle a potentially dangerous recovery.
Block the SIM through NTC or Ncell
Contact the registered SIM operator using official support or a service centre and ask it to block the lost SIM. This helps limit unauthorised calls and SMS OTP receipt. Have proof of SIM ownership ready. If your lost phone contains two SIMs, address both numbers.
Try the built-in remote location and lock service
For Android, visit the official Google Find Hub through your own account on another device. Depending on setup and connectivity, you may locate, ring or mark the phone as lost. For iPhone, use Apple’s official Find My guidance. Never trust a text saying someone “found” your phone that asks for your Apple or Google password.
Change passwords for sensitive services
On a trusted device, secure primary email and financial accounts. Review active sessions and enable multi-factor protection on another device or method. Alert your bank and wallet provider if the phone was unlocked, saved credentials were accessible or you see unusual transactions.
Collect the IMEI and ownership evidence
The IMEI may be printed on the box, invoice or in an authorised device account. Dual-SIM phones may have two IMEI numbers. Record model, colour, last location and date. Avoid sharing an IMEI publicly; use it only in the authorised report process.
Register the lost or stolen phone with NTA MDMS
Visit mdms.nta.gov.np through your own browser and choose Lost/Stolen Registration. Follow the form’s IMEI, last-use, identity and email-verification steps. NTA warns that the SIM should already be blocked. A successful report is a request for assistance, not a guarantee the phone will be found.
Report the theft to police when appropriate
For a suspected theft, provide local police with your device description, last-seen timeline and lawful ownership documents. Preserve any online threats or ransom messages without responding. Do not pay someone who promises to reveal the device’s exact location for a fee.
Track the report and plan replacement access
Keep the MDMS report details and check the official status function. Ask your bank about securely re-registering mobile banking on a replacement device. If you consider remotely erasing the old phone, remember it can delete data and may stop future location tracking.
Mistakes to avoid
- Paying strangers who claim they can track any IMEI instantly.
- Logging in through a phishing link sent to your replacement phone.
- Posting full IMEI, citizenship and bank details on social media.
Frequently asked questions
Should I block the SIM before MDMS registration?
Yes. NTA’s lost/stolen registration instructions explicitly say to block the related SIM first.
Will MDMS always recover my phone?
No. It supports reporting and tracking; recovery is not guaranteed.
Can I still use Google Find Hub after wiping the phone?
A factory reset can remove access to further location updates. Consider the implications before erasing.
Official sources and further reading
Operator rules, application screens and government procedures can change. Check the latest official instructions before sharing personal details or paying a fee.
How to Secure Your Google Account in NepalA beginner-friendly Google account safety checklist: passwords, 2-step verification, device checks and recovery.
How to Spot Fake Links, OTP Scams and Phishing MessagesSimple checks for suspicious SMS, wallet messages, job offers and fake login pages before sharing passwords or OTPs.
Wi-Fi Connected but No Internet? Fix It on WindowsStep-by-step Windows Wi-Fi troubleshooting for home internet in Nepal, without risky settings changes.