What is Mobile Phone Secure Database (MPSD)?

MPSD is a web-based, on-line, database facility allows the owners of mobile phones and other communication gadgets, such as iPODS, hand-held and desktop computers, to register their contact details and intrinsic identifiers of the item, such as the make, model serial or mobile phone IMEI serial numbers.

The MPSD system is the first in Singapore and, instantly ascertain whether an individual is in possession of lost or stolen items registered on the system. Only authorized administrator personnel will have access to the system for crime detection purposes.

MPSD Singapore's existence is only to render our service and provide our community with our professional assistance to stop or cripple, petty thefts or misdemeanor acts - lowering crime rates and imposing FEAR to our youths against criminal thoughts.

Why must I register my mobile phone with MPSD?

The majority of these devices are never returned to their owners simply because, even if found, there is no way of knowing to whom they actually belong.

This crime prevention initiative will assist in the recovery of lost or stolen mobile phones and electronic gadgets, preventing loss of important data and providing valuable assistance in the detection of offenders. Those signing up to use the database should register the IMEI or equipment number of their handset. By tying these intrinsic identifiers to the registered owners' contact details, MPSD is able to instantly identify and contact the owner of any registered item that is reported as recovered following loss or theft. Organisations that recover such items, the items can be searched and identified through MPSD database. A mobile phone registered to MPSD is a deterrent to theft. Any one caught in possession of a phone registered on MPSD can be identified as being in possession of stolen goods in minutes.

What is IMEI serial numbers?

Every phone comes with a unique code called the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI).

The IMEI serial Code is a unique 15-digit code used to identify an individual GSM/DCS/PCS mobile phone to a GSM/DCS/PCS network. When a phone is switched on, the IMEI number is transmitted and checked against a database in the network's EIR (Equipment Identity Register).

The IMEI can be displayed on most phones by dialing the code *# 06 #. It is also usually printed on the compliance plate under the original battery that comes with the phone.

However, while IMEI blocking on network is a major step forward in stamping out mobile thefts, it needs to be part of a broader industry response, which includes all carriers blocking lost and stolen handsets. Until recently, black-market trading was thriving in well-known third party mobile phone syndicates in Singapore who can “remove’’ the IMEI and PIN codes block. The same technique could also be used for stolen phones, according to a number of operators in Singapore, which were against implementing IMEI protection. Another obvious flaw in the plan pointed out in Singapore, and also reflected in Asia, is that stolen phones can simply be shipped across borders where they are not recognized as stolen. So while IMEI blocking appears to be a useful technological solution against mobile phone theft, in reality, it could be much harder to implement.

Why must I register my mobile phone's IMEI serial numbers?

The owners usually do not keep a record of their IMEI numbers or they have lost their records long ago. Most people can tell you the manufacturers name but they cannot tell you the model or the serial number.

The MPSD database will make it possible to provide information the mobile phone ownership once a phone has been reported stolen or lost to the individual’s mobile phone network operator and MPSD. Secure database highlighted the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) handset numbers for identification. The measures have been introduced as part of an ongoing alert details to the mobile phone industry and to crack down on mobile phone thefts.

How can I stop suspects from getting away with it?

MPSD is to identify owners in the event that their equipment is recovered after loss or theft and to identify equipment that has been recorded as lost or stolen. By registering to MPSD you greatly increase your chances of having your mobile phones returned quickly and safely and to identify anyone using or in possession of your stolen or lost item.