HANDSET SECURITY: Stolen cellphone databases go live in the U.S.

WASHINGTON - U.S. mobile carriers took a major step this week to thwart the rising number of smartphone thefts with the release of databases that will block stolen phones from being used on domestic networks. CTIA-The Wireless Association, an international non-profit membership organization, says that AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, and Verizon Wireless have included their databases of stolen cell phone IDs. In April 2012, CTIA and the participating wireless companies, along with FCC and law enforcement officials, announced the four voluntary steps the wireless industry would take to help deter smartphone thefts and protect consumer data. Included in the four steps...