Brazil police launch operations to recover stolen mobile devices

Law enforcement agencies in Brazil are intensifying efforts to combat the trade of stolen mobile devices through various operations and digital tools. In Bahia, the 'Operação Mobile 360º' has utilized messaging to notify individuals in possession of devices with theft or robbery restrictions. Authorities emphasize that these notifications will never include links or requests for sensitive data like passwords to prevent fraud. The goal is to encourage good-faith purchasers to surrender the devices to designated police stations so they can be returned to their rightful owners.

In Espírito Santo, approximately 500 people have been summoned under the national 'Última Chamada' operation to return devices flagged as stolen. Similarly, in Feira de Santana, a police operation targeted commercial establishments, resulting in the seizure of unapproved and potentially stolen mobile phones and accessories.

To assist citizens, the federal government provides the 'Celular Seguro' platform. This tool allows users to register devices via a Gov.br account, designate trusted contacts to issue alerts, and check if a used phone has a history of theft or loss using its IMEI number. Authorities recommend verifying the IMEI before any used device purchase to avoid legal complications related to receiving stolen goods.