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Joe06385 Author

Level 1

8 points

Lost and Stolen Devices

How is it that Apple can't be of any more help in this matter?

The devices serial number is recorded with Apple when it syncs up, so it should be a simple matter of allowing an owner to report the device lost or stolen to Apple, and then they could be of some assistance in recovering the device, or at least preventing it's continued use.

Also, am I the only person who thinks that the Find My iPhone tool is kind of lame, in that all a theif need do is wipe the device to render it useless?

iPad

Posted on Dec 12, 2011 12:00 PM

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5 replies

Level 4

1,634 points

Dec 12, 2011 12:08 PM in response to Joe06385

It's not that simple.

Find My iPhone is tool for a user to find their misplaced iPhone. Like when you lose it in the sofa, or leave it in your car or at your friends.

If you lost it and someone wipes it or if someone steals it and wipes it there is nothing that will help you.

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Level 4

1,012 points

Dec 12, 2011 12:15 PM in response to Joe06385

It's not Apple's responsibility to track or help you find a device, any more than it's a car company's responsibility to help you find a stolen car.

At best, Apple will only get involved is subpoenaed by a law enforcement agency.

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Joe06385 Author

Level 1

8 points

Dec 12, 2011 12:25 PM in response to bobwild

As long as it's an App, and not embedded in the firmware, that will be the case...

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Joe06385 Author

Level 1

8 points

Dec 12, 2011 12:28 PM in response to TheDave413

I agree, it's not their RESPONSIBILITY, however since they ARE tracking the serial numbers, it would take virtually no effort to do as described.

Dell doesn't NEED to do so either, but you can at least report it stolen, and can get a call if found...

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Level 4

1,012 points

Dec 12, 2011 12:50 PM in response to Joe06385

Sure, it's an optional service the company *could* offer.

They opt not to, and not to get involved.

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Lost and Stolen Devices

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