AT&T Unveiling New Blocking Service for Stolen Phones Next Week

AT&T will unveil a database of stolen phones to prevent lost devices from connecting to AT&T's network. The Verge reported the launch with a leaked screenshot showing a launch data of July 10, 2012.

AT&T also issued a statement to MacRumors:

"As announced in April, AT&T is creating a stolen phone database to prevent devices reported stolen from accessing wireless networks. We will install this availability next week for AT&T phones on our network and are working toward a cross-carrier solution later this year."

The Verge also noted that AT&T's guidance for staffers says "only the person who originated a block may request block removal". At the moment, it is still unclear how exactly the database is going to work. This includes preventing legitimate transfers in ownership from being flagged by malicious actors, we will probably expect more details from AT&T as the launch for the stolen phone database comes closer to launch.