The new shared database, the Central Equipment Identity Register, is a blacklist of mobile unique identifying codes (IMEI numbers) and enables all UK mobile network operators to disable a handset, not just the SIM card, making the phone unusable on any network once reported stolen or lost.
John Denham, Home Office Minister for Crime Reduction and Policing said: "Home Office research shows that mobile phones are involved in 28% of robbery... Our strategy aims to reduce [stolen phones'] value to criminals."
The new measure applies to both pre-paid and contract phones. To report a phone stolen and have it barred customers should call their own network operator.
The database is complemented by the Mobile Telephones (Re-programming) Act, which came into force on 4th October, making it an offence to re-program the IMEI number on a mobile phone without permission from the manufacturer. It provides penalties of up to five years in prison.