To most people, a mobile phone is like a third arm. The attachment we have to our phones is a large one, with most people constantly checking their texts, missed calls or voicemail, and a huge percentage of owners never leave home without it.  The thought of somebody else having their grubby little mitts on your precious new gadget can be ghastly, but what do you do when it happens? Plus, more importantly, how do you prevent phone theft in the first place?

The easiest way to handle your phone being stolen is to prepare beforehand. Here are a few ways that you can optimise your mobile to ensure that it's completely protected in the unfortunate event of a theft…

Take down some notes

Whenever you buy a new phone, or if you haven't already done so, you should make a note of what the phone's serial number or IMEI number is, as well as what manufacturer and model the device is. An increasing number of mobiles nowadays use the IMEI number system, which can be found by typing *#06# (star hash 0 6 hash) into your phone. The device will automatically display a 15-digit code which is unique to your handset.

Older phones may not have this system enabled, which means that owners would have to consult the packaging and paperwork that came with their phone. If this is not available, most phones have their unique serial number printed behind the battery compartment. Remember to only take your phone apart if you are absolutely sure that you know what you're doing. Also, be aware that with some manufacturers, your warranty will be voided by fiddling around with the handset.

Use passwords whenever possible

Most mobiles use some kind of password protection system for the handset, allowing you to configure a certain PIN code to ensure that nobody other than you can access it. Usually you can choose to protect your SMS inbox, voicemail or contacts, plus you could lock access to the phone. Most handsets usually allow a four-digit PIN, though it's possible, on some models, to use a completely personalised combination of letters, numbers and symbols.

Having all of these passwords set might take you a few seconds longer to get access to your latest texts, but it'll be worth it to prevent a thief from getting access to your personal items.

Back up all of your stuff

If your phone goes missing, it can be crushing to realise that you won't be able to get all of those holiday photos, custom ringtones or game saves back. Most modern phones allow the use of external memory cards which can allow you to store huge amounts of data, such as photos or music. Some phones come bundled with memory units as well as an adapter for your computer. It's worth buying one of these adapters, if you don't have one already, as it'll allow you to connect your memory card via your computer's USB ports. You can then copy all of the items from the memory unit onto your hard drive for whenever you may need them.

iPhone users don't have the ability to use external memory cards, however, data from apps, photos and videos can all be synced to your computer via the iTunes program. Windows users also have the ability to view their handset's stored photos by connecting the device to their PC, browsing to My Computer, double-clicking the iPhone's icon in the system devices window and browsing through the folders. All of the videos and photos currently found on the phone can be found in this location which makes backing them up really easy.

Don't be flashy

Though you may be excited about your brand new phone, be careful not to rub it in the wrong people's faces. Running down the street screaming about your shiny new iPhone 4S may make you seem cooler than the average shopper, but it also makes you a prime target for nearby phone thieves. You wouldn't brag in public about how much of your birthday money you've got on you, so why do it with your phone? Keep your mobile tucked away in your pocket when in busy areas and don't walk down the street fixated on a text you're sending at the same time. Not only are you in danger of walking into objects/people/the road, but you're pretty much giving phone thieves an opportunity on a plate. All it takes is one sneaky grab in a crowd and you're a few bob out of pocket.

Keep an emergency mobile for certain occasions

When you go abroad, to a festival or even on a night out, it's always wise to take an older, cheaper handset instead. Holiday tourists are often easy targets for experienced local phone pinchers and festival camping grounds are a hotspot for thieving of all kinds so it's best to keep all gadgets at home. The common rule is if you can't afford to replace it, don't take it.

Find My Phone apps

Recently, applications for smartphones have been made which allow the user to track their phone from a remote location, using the device's built-in GPS system. There are various apps for Android users and Apple's Find My Phone system, which comes pre-installed on newer models, allows you to track your device's location, lock the phone or wipe its contents using Apple's iCloud technology.

Reporting a stolen phone

If you've been a victim of phone crime, there are three steps you need to take:

1) Remember those notes you took before? This is where they come in handy. Dig 'em out and make sure you have them ready before making any calls or reports.

2) Contact your mobile phone provider. As soon as you suspect that your phone's been nicked, let whichever network you're signed up with know, and they'll take all of the steps to ensure that your phone is reported stolen, blocked from usage and replaced (if your insurance scheme/contract covers it).

3) Report the theft to the police. Some insurance policies or contract terms and conditions state that you must show evidence of the phone theft by presenting a fully filled out police report. However, this doesn't mean to go ringing 999 because, let's be honest, losing your mobile isn't a major emergency. Though it may not guarantee you'll ever see your beloved mobile again, notifying the local police service of the theft can prepare them for future incidents, especially if it turns out that there have been a number of thefts in the area.

Network provider contact details

3 - 08707 330 333

O2 - 08705 214 000

Orange - 07973 100 150

T-Mobile - 0845 412 5000

Tesco - 0845 301 4455

Virgin - 0845 6000 789

Vodafone - 08700 700191