How to Lock or Remotely Erase a Stolen Xiaomi Phone
If your Xiaomi phone is stolen, you have a limited window to act before your personal data is accessed. Here's what to do immediately.
Step 1: Act Within the First Hour
Most phone thieves will either turn off the phone or try to factory reset it within hours. Act quickly while the phone is still on and connected to data.
Step 2: Locate the Phone First
Go to i.mi.com (Mi Account) or android.com/find (Google) and check the last known location. If it's at a nearby location, consider contacting police rather than confronting the thief yourself.
Step 3: Remotely Lock the Phone
On i.mi.com → select your device → "Lock":
- Set a new temporary lock screen PIN (different from your usual one)
- Add a custom message on the lock screen (e.g., "This phone is stolen. Please call +1-XXX-XXX-XXXX for a reward.")
- Add a contact number visible on the lock screen so an honest finder can return it
Locking also disables fingerprint and face unlock, forcing PIN entry only.
Step 4: Remotely Erase (Last Resort)
If you're certain the phone won't be recovered, select "Erase" on i.mi.com or android.com/find. This factory resets the phone, deleting all personal data.
⚠️ Warning: After remote erase, you cannot track the phone anymore.
Step 5: Report to Authorities
File a police report with:
- Your phone's IMEI number (found on the original box, receipt, or previously noted)
- Last known location from Find My Device
- Screenshots of the tracking map
The IMEI can be used by carriers to blacklist the device, making it unusable on any network.
Prepare Now: Note Your IMEI
Dial *#06# to display your IMEI. Save it somewhere safe (email, notes on another device).
