Wireless providers to disable stolen phones - WKOW 27: Madison, WI Breaking News, Weather and Sports

Wireless providers to disable stolen phones

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WASHINGTON (WKOW) – Federal and local officials announced a plan Tuesday that would enable wireless carriers to shut off a cell phone after it is reported stolen.

The Federal Communications Commission Chairman Julius Genachowski, Sen. Charles Schumer and police chiefs from New York, Philadelphia and the District of Columbia unveiled the plan.

Police in major cities say they are seeing increases in the theft of mobile phones, which are quickly resold in fencing operations.

Officials will rely on a database of uniquely identifiable cell phone numbers. They hope it will be up and running in six months.

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