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QR code generator

Create a QR code for your phone's lock screen

Whip up a custom QR code with your contact details. Pop it on your lock screen, so if someone finds your phone, they've got a quick and easy way to get in touch - no unlocking needed.

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What you really lose when you lose your phone

It's not just your phone, it's everything inside it. There's all the memories - photos from last summer's holiday, a funny message from your friend once sent, a video of your dog curled up on the sofa.

Then there's the everyday stuff: no access to mobile banking, travel passes or work logins. All those handy notes and reminders? Gone. And if you didn't back them up, they're not coming back. Nightmare.

You probably haven't memorised your best mate's number (who has?), so you're suddenly cut off from your contacts too. And without your phone, logging into your email or social media - with all those 2-factor-authentication codes - can be a headache.

It all adds up to way more than just a lost device. So giving someone a simple way to return it to you? Definitely worth doing.

Make losing your phone less likely

It might still happen, but there's ways to lower the chances. Start here:

  • Turn on tracking - Most phones have built-in tracking, but it needs to be set up ahead of time. If it goes missing, you'll be able to check its location using another device.
  • Use a zipped pocket or bag - Keeps your phone secure, even when it's not in your bag.
  • Avoid leaving it unattended - Try not to set it down on tables, train seats or shop counters - anywhere it's easy to walk away without it.
  • Pick a 'home' for it - Always stash your phone in the same spot (like a zipped bag pocket). Getting into the habit makes it easier to notice when it's not there.
  • Use accessories that help - AirTags, lanyards, anti-theft bags...anything that makes losing your phone less likely when you're out and about.

What to do if you lose your phone

Hopefully your QR code lock screen does the job and someone gets in touch. But just in case, here's what else to try:

  • Try calling it. Someone might hear it and answer - worth a shot.
  • Track and lock it. If you've got a tracking system set-up on another device, use it to check the location and lock it remotely.
  • Contact your network. They can block the SIM and help stop any misuse.
  • Check local lost property. This is especially important if you were at an event, travelling or using public transport.
  • Report it stolen. If it's been stolen, you'll need to tell the police (and possibly your insurer).
  • Got insurance? If you do, read the policy wording. Some home and travel insurance policies cover lost phones, so it's worth checking.

If your phone’s not coming back

Some home insurance policies cover personal belongings outside of the home - like your phone - but not all do. It depends on your level of cover, and in some cases, you might need to pay a little extra to add it on.

So if your renewal's coming up, or if you're thinking of switching, this might be the perfect time to find a deal that covers you wherever your phone (or laptop, or headphones...) ends up.

If yours doesn't include this right now, it could be worth looking at what other insurers offer. Some include this kind of protection as standard, or bundle it in for a better price than a separate gadget policy.

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Need more help?

How do I report my phone as lost?

Tell your network provider straight away so they can block the SIM and stop any misuse. You might also want to report it to the policy, especially if you think it was stolen.

How can I recover photos from a lost phone without a backup?

If you didn’t save them to the cloud or another device, recovery is tricky. Try logging into cloud Apple like Google Photos or iCloud - your pics might be there.

How do I claim on my insurance for a lost phone?

Check your policy, then contact your insurer with the details. They’ll let you know what you need - usually things like proof of purchase and what happened.