My iPhone was stolen and I am receiving messages via iMessage to remove it from FindMy

Leave the iPhone attached to your Apple ID, as you want to retain the lock.

Report the threats to the police, if that’s an option for you.

Any requests received for proof of ownership or Apple ID password or such are fraudulent.

I am getting harassed by iMessage to remove it from my device list.

Don't do it. If you do, you will give over complete control of your phone to the bad guys that have it now.

True, you will never see the phone again, but as long as you keep the phone on your list of devices using your Apple ID, the phone will be useless to the bad guys.....and.....you will really frustrate them as well.

Ignore the threats, they are simply trying to scam you.

Hi DBS1987,

Welcome to the Apple (user-to-user) Community, and commiserations of the stolen phone situation.

Re: "Will it still erase even if I remove it from my device list now?"

Am no expert in this area, yet your question surely deserves a prompt response:

Article below says:

• "If you have AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss, don’t remove the device from Find My or your Apple ID, even if you’ve remotely erased it".

Apple support has an excellent article online that may help with some tips and / or answers:

See what to do: If your iPhone or iPad is lost or stolen - Apple Support

Please note the advice listed under "Report it to local law enforcement".

Also: Learn how to find the serial number of your device

See how to: Get help with security issues - Apple Support

Eg: says: Law enforcement

Please consult these guidelines for contacting Apple with law enforcement requests:

• United States
• Outside the United States

Apple ID Support website (info / support / contact options etc.): Apple ID - Official Apple Support

(NB: There is a "Get support" link at the bottom of the linked website)

All the best :-)