Check if an item is stolen

Enter the serial number, IMEI, VIN or another identifier to search reports of lost and stolen property. The check is free and needs no account.

Where to find the number

  • Power tools and equipment: the rating plate or sticker on the housing, often under the battery. Construction machines carry a serial or product identification number on a plate on the frame.
  • Laptops: the label on the underside or under the battery. On a Mac, open the Apple menu and choose About This Mac.
  • Phones and tablets: dial *#06# to show the IMEI, or look in Settings under About.
  • Bicycles: the frame number, usually stamped under the frame where the pedals turn.
  • Cars and motorcycles: the VIN, visible through the windshield at the bottom of the driver's side, on the door pillar and on the registration papers.
  • Cameras and other electronics: the underside or the battery compartment.
  • Watches and jewelry: many watches have a serial number on the case back. Jewelry rarely has one, so search by make, type and place instead.

What the result means

Reports whose number matches exactly come first, marked as an exact match. Open the report and compare the make, model, color, place and date with the item in front of you. A match means someone reported an item with that number as lost or stolen; it does not prove that the seller stole it.

If you have only part of the number, the check lists the reports that contain it.

If nothing matches

No match does not prove the item is clean: many thefts are never reported here. Before you buy:

  • Ask for the receipt or other proof of ownership.
  • Be wary of a price far below what the item usually sells for.
  • Check that the serial number has not been scratched off, painted over or replaced.
  • Ask the local police whether the number is in their records.

If the item matches a report

  • Do not confront the seller or hand over money.
  • Use the contact form on the report to reach the owner.
  • Tell the local police where you saw the item, and mention the report.
  • If you found the item, hand it in to the police or contact the owner through the report.

Questions

Can I search the police stolen property database?

Usually not. Police records of stolen property, such as the FBI's NCIC in the United States, are open only to law enforcement. A police department can check a serial number for you; call its non-emergency number.

Is the check free?

Yes. Checking is free and needs no account, and so is reporting.

What if I have only part of the number, or none?

Enter the part you have, at least three characters. Without a number, search by type, city and country.

How do I report my own stolen item?

Submit a report with the serial number, so anyone who checks the number finds it.