172536_CPCA_2020_Spring Magazine - Final | Página 49

But how does a victim find out the IMEI number? The IMEI is
easily found either by the victim logging on to their wireless provider’s
account or contacting their wireless provider for the information.
If they saved the box the device came in, the number should
be printed on the label on the box. The use of the IMEI will help to
more accurately report stolen devices and ensure the correct device
is identified when reported to State reporting systems, NCIC, or the
cell phone companies’ blacklist.
ecoATM and Law Enforcement
In communities all across the country, ecoATM is helping law enforcement
identify and capture cellphone thieves, persons of interest,
wanted persons, and suspects involved in crimes not relating to the
theft of a device, e.g., terrorism, fugitives, homicides, child pornography,
etc. and reunite victims of cellphone theft with their stolen
property. Working with our law enforcement partners, we have
implemented robust security features and processes to screen for
and block the purchase of suspected stolen devices. We also make
detailed information available to law enforcement about each and
every transaction. In the rare event that a stolen device does make
its way into our kiosk, we also provide law enforcement with detailed
information and evidence they need to prosecute the individual and
return the stolen property to the victim. This is done promptly upon
request and without the need for a subpoena or search warrant.
It is estimated that as of 2020, there are over 525 million idle or
inactive mobile devices in the United States. ecoATM specializes in
giving millions of devices a second life. ecoATM provides a simple,
safe way to sell and recycle mobile devices to reduce electronic waste.
ecoATM’s goal is to help people recycle their used or broken mobile
devices. To help ecoATM and law enforcement deter the fencing of
stolen items or fraud, we have implemented extensive layers of technology
and processes to reduce the likelihood that an ecoATM kiosk
will buy a stolen device.
The Importance of IMEI
So, what is the best way to identify a mobile device? For years, serial
numbers have been the way to identify items from bicycles to electronic
devices. As law enforcement is aware, serial numbers can
repeat between manufacturers and sometimes even repeat with the
same manufacturer. Mobile electronic devices come with an International
Mobile Equipment Identifier, or IMEI. This number is unique
to each mobile device and does not repeat. It’s essentially the VIN or
fingerprint for the device. While serial numbers may repeat, IMEIs
do not. The IMEI is how the mobile technology industry identifies
devices. It is recommended that law enforcement agencies use the
IMEI in reports of lost or stolen mobile devices to identify the item.
At ecoATM we pride ourselves in being partners with law enforcement.
Our law enforcement team is comprised of four former law
enforcement executives with over 100 years of law enforcement experience.
The team and ecoATM’s Regulatory Affairs staff are
available to assist law enforcement agencies. No search warrant or
subpoena required; just a simple phone call or email request from a
law enforcement agency is all that is needed. If you’d like to find out
more about how ecoATM works with law enforcement, or to contact
one of our Directors of Law Enforcement Relations, please visit us
at www.ecoatm.com/law-enforcement.
SOLUTIONS FOR
LAW ENFORCEMENT
Portable radar speed signs and
message boards you program remotely. Ideal for
rapid information sharing and traffic calming as
part of your coronavirus response.
AllTrafficSolutions.com
OVER
20 YEARS
OF SERVICE TO LAW
ENFORCEMENT
SPRING 2020 | CALIFORNIA POLICE CHIEF 49