Why do we have to do it?
The registration and validation of cell phone lines in Argentina is mandatory to prevent their use in illicit activities and to block the devices through the IMEI number. The IMEI, which is a unique code that identifies each cell phone, is included in a "black list" that prevents its reuse. After making the report, the user can recover their line through their mobile service provider.
It is important to note that there are methods to adulterate the IMEI, but carrying out this process requires specific technical knowledge.
If the number is not registered before October 18, what will happen to the line?
If the registration and validation of the line is not carried out before the established deadline, there is a risk of losing the line. This means that the user could be unable to make calls, send messages and use services such as WhatsApp. If you have not completed the procedure, I would recommend doing it as soon as possible to avoid any inconvenience.
The objective
The objective of the Government of Argentina in implementing this process is to discourage cell phone theft. The crime figures related to the theft of mobile devices are alarming, with an average of approximately 7,000 thefts per day today, according to statistics. By making it more difficult to resell stolen cell phones, it is expected to reduce the incentive to commit these crimes.
How to lock your Android cell phone or iPhone to protect your data in case of theft?
In case of theft or loss, users should call *910 to report their stolen cell phone. It is not necessary to file a police report, since the cell phone will be blocked and will become unusable for the thief.
Step by step to register lines on *234#
Prepaid customers, which represent approximately 80% of the total users in the country, must validate their lines and link them with a unique code that identifies each phone.
To register the lines, users must call *234# (if it does not work, call *910). If the number is already registered in the name of an owner, they will receive a message confirming that it is not necessary to carry out the procedure. Below is the information that will be requested from users according to each mobile service provider.
Once the line is validated, it will be linked to a holder and an IMEI number, without the user needing to know the code itself.
Clear
Steps to block the cell phone in Claro
- A screen appears asking you to enter your type of document where you can choose 1: Argentine DNI, 2: Foreign DNI or 3: Passport or foreign document
- Enter your document number
- Select your sex (1: Male 2: Female)
- On the next screen they will ask you a security question that only you can answer
- Finally They will ask your date of birth, you must answer using multiple choice
Once achieved, they will welcome you to the new security system.
Staff
Steps to block the cell phone in Personal
- Enter your document number
- Select an option that contains your first and last name (multiple choice)
- Security question that you must answer (multiple choice)
- Enter date of birth (multiple choice)
Once done you will be welcomed to the new security system
Movistar
Steps to block the cell phone in Movistar
- On the numeric keypad, dial *234# and Send
- You are welcomed to the system and asked to enter your ID without spaces or periods, only numbers.
- Gender selection (1: male or 2: female)
- Related Security Question
- Finally, you are asked for your date of birth (multiple choice)
Once achieved, you will be welcomed to the new system security
Tuenti
Steps to block the cell phone in Tuenti
In the case of Tuenti users, they are not yet included in *234# so that they can register their lines in their names.
The first thing you have to do is contact a Tuenti expert.
You have two ways:
- Call from any cell phone to *910 (Unified reporting service in case of theft or loss of cell phones) Enter option 2 (Tuenti)
- Or, you contact our experts by chat Link: http://tuentichat.epiron.com.ar/
When you contact an expert at *910 or through the Tuenti Chat, we will ask you for this information to validate the ownership:
- The cell phone number that was stolen
- Data on the line owner
- Questions about recharges and uses of the line (to make sure that you are the one using it)
- IMEI of the device you were using
- Brand/model/characteristics
- Location of theft or loss
At the end of the process, You will be given a unique management number.
After you contact an expert, reporting that you were robbed, the experts will block your line and the equipment, if you request it.
The line, so that calls cannot be made, nor can they use the Tuenti service. The equipment, so that it cannot be used again in any cellular company in Argentina.
And in the event that you want to recover your equipment, the experts will give you a unique management number. The only way to unlock your device is by providing the following information:
- Lock management number
- IMEI that you request to unlock
- Approximate date and time of theft or loss
Once the line is validated, it will be linked to an owner and an IMEI number, without the user needing to know the code itself.
Users who already have an active line have 18 months to complete the process. Those who acquire a new prepaid SIM card must validate it as a necessary condition to begin using it.
Remember that it is important to consult with your mobile service provider to obtain the most up-to-date and accurate information on the process of registering and blocking cell phones in case of theft in Argentina.
Updated on: 11/10/2021 00:00:00
Disclaimer: The information presented does not constitute financial, investment, commercial or other advice and is solely the opinion of the writer. By using the information on this site, you agree that we are not responsible for losses, damages or injuries arising from the use or interpretation of the information.
