How can I shut down a stolen iPhone using Verizon and the serial number?

ink160 wrote:

girlfriend stole my iPhone. I have Verizon shut it off, but she still uses the apps on it when there’s Wi-Fi what else can I do to shut it down?

I got all the information to put it in the iCloud. I just haven’t done it yet. Is there a way I can put it in with the serial number and stuff?

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Here are the directions to follow:

• If your iPhone or iPad was stolen - Apple Support

You will want to re-secure your compromised Apple Account and change all of your passwords and credentials:

• If you think your Apple Account has been compromised - Apple Support

Theft is a matter to be discussed with local police.

Carrier blacklists are best discussed with your carrier.

In general terms, always get your Apple Account security breach resolved a d re-locked before or in parallel with police and carrier discussions, as well. Your chosen approach here unfortunately tipped your hand.

1. No, there is no way to remotely shut down an iPhone.
2. No, if it's not on iCloud then you can't even lock it. The Serial number is just used for ID purposes.
3. You can't add it to iCloud remotely either. It must be logged in to your Apple account to be accessible on iCloud.com to be be able to lock it and set it to lost mode.
4. If you are 100% sure she stole it, contact the police and file a report.

If you were using Find My on your iPhone then you can Mark it as Lost to disable it.

Mark a device as lost in Find My on iPhone - Apple Support

If she knew your Apple Account password, then she can turn off FindMy and effectively make the device hers. Your only option at that point is to disable cellular access like you have done and of course file a police report..

Contact Verizon to have them blacklist the phone. If you are sure she stole your phone, contact the police also.

If your iPhone is logged into your Apple ID and has Find My turned on, you can mark the phone as Lost.

If your iPhone or iPad was stolen - Apple Support

You cannot remotely enable Find My,