CTIA-The Wireless Association® Statement on the Wireless Industry's Efforts to Combat Phone Thefts

WASHINGTON, Oct. 31, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- In April 2012, CTIA and the participating wireless companies, along with FCC and law enforcement officials, announced the four voluntary steps the wireless industry would take to help deter smartphone thefts and protect consumer data. Included in the four steps was a database designed to prevent GSM smartphones that were reported as stolen from being activated or provided service in the U.S. by October 31, 2012. CTIA-The Wireless Association® President and CEO Steve Largent issued the following statement:

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"CTIA and its member companies have always been advocates for wireless users' safety, which is why we're pleased our members met the voluntary deadline to create databases that will prevent stolen smartphones from being reactivated.

"While the GSM and CDMA databases are important, consumers also play a key role in protecting their information and preventing smartphone theft. By using passwords or PINs, as well as remote wiping capabilities, consumers can help to dry up the aftermarket for stolen devices. Today's average wireless user stores a lot of personal information on a mobile device, such as pictures, video, banking and other sensitive data. It's important consumers know that by taking simple precautions, such as downloading a few apps, they can protect their information from unauthorized users."

For more information, including a list of apps, please visit: http://ctia.it/Y01lpA  

CTIA-The Wireless Association® (www.ctia.org) is an international organization representing the wireless communications industry. Membership in the association includes wireless carriers and their suppliers, as well as providers and manufacturers of wireless data services and products. CTIA advocates on behalf of its members at all levels of government. The association also coordinates the industry's voluntary best practices and initiatives, and sponsors the industry's leading wireless tradeshows. CTIA was founded in 1984 and is based in Washington, D.C.

SOURCE CTIA-The Wireless Association