Give them your IMEI. They can add it to the national blacklist, making the phone useless for resale.
iPhone users can track devices even if they are offline or powered down (on newer models) using Apple’s encrypted mesh network of other Apple devices.
The isn't a "free app" you can download from a store; it’s a combination of legal power and direct access to cellular networks. Instead of looking for "police software," rely on official manufacturer tools and ensure your "Find My" settings are enabled before a theft occurs.
While you can’t use police-grade software, you can use the official tools provided by manufacturers which are often just as effective:
Publicly available "trackers" usually just tell you the device model and country of origin based on the IMEI; they cannot show you its live location on a map. Legitimate Free Alternatives
But is this professional-grade software actually available to the public? Here is the reality of how law enforcement tracks devices and what you can actually do to find your phone. Understanding IMEI: The Digital Fingerprint
If you still have the box, it’s printed there. You can also find it by dialing *#06# on any phone (do this now and write it down!).
Police can subpoena mobile network operators (MNOs). Carriers can see which cell tower a specific IMEI is pinging in real-time, allowing them to triangulate the device's location to within a few meters.
For Android users, this is the gold standard. As long as your Google account is active, you can track, lock, or wipe your phone from any browser.
Law enforcement uses proprietary platforms (like Harris Corporation’s StingRay or various forensic suites) that interface directly with telecom infrastructure. The Truth About "Free Police Tracking Software"