When Anna Hewson’s daughter’s iPhone disappeared one weekend, she did what any parent would do — she followed the digital crumbs.
Using Apple’s “Find My” app, the KUSA 9News producer tracked the stolen device until it ended up at a Walmart in Arvada, Colorado.
Inside the store stood an EcoATM, a kiosk that pays cash for used phones. Hewson had a hunch, so she called the police. Moments later, officers unlocked the machine with help from EcoATM’s customer service. Inside the bin sat a pile of locked phones, including her daughter’s.
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“At face value, the idea that you can walk in and turn over, sell stolen property to a machine, it seems like the perfect vehicle to further your crime,” Arvada Police Department Public Information Officer Chase Amos told 9News.
What are EcoATMs?
EcoATMs are automated kiosks found at major retailers, including Walmart. They offer users instant cash in exchange for used electronics.
The machines scan a seller’s ID, take a thumb print, snap a photo and send the data to live agents for verification. Devices are held for at least 30 days at a processing center in Louisville, Kentucky, which offers a short window where owners can recover stolen property.
EcoATM claims to work closely with law enforcement, logging device serial numbers in national databases and cooperating with investigations.
“EcoATM happily and voluntarily cooperates with law enforcement when requested. If a missing phone does end up in one of our machines, it is returned to the rightful owner,” a company spokesperson told 9News.
Still, theft victims say recovery isn’t always so simple.
Despite robust security measures, the high volume of stolen phones and the anonymity offered by kiosks make investigations challenging for law enforcement.
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Frustrating search for a stolen phone
Michael Dill, a Denver veteran, told 9News that he was mugged on St. Patrick’s Day in 2024. Hours later, he tracked his phone to an EcoATM in an Englewood Walmart. Though he reported it, Dill said he spent weeks in a frustrating loop trying to confirm the phone’s presence at EcoATM’s warehouse.
Eventually, the company sent him a replacement device. But, he says his old phone later resurfaced in the hands of someone with a UK phone number who texted him and demanded he remove the device from Apple’s security system. When Dill refused, the texter threatened to access his data.
He contacted Apple, which assured him the phone would remain locked and his data would remain secure.
In a statement to 9News, EcoATM said Dill’s phone was not found among any devices in its warehouse.
“Because we were unable to locate Michael’s phone, we were unable to return it to him,” a spokesperson said. “However, we did in good faith, provide him with a complimentary replacement device.”
Protecting yourself devices
On the bright side, there are several ways to help protect yourself from scams involving services like EcoATM.
Log your IMEI. Record your phone’s international mobile equipment identity and serial number, which can usually be found in the “About” section of your device settings.
Purchase phone cases with anti-theft features. Or, choose phones with built-in anti-theft features and enable tracking apps, like Apple’s “Find My” app, to locate your device in real time.
Choose smart insurance plans. Opt for plans with lower deductibles or comprehensive coverage in case of theft.
Secure your phone. Help protect your private data by using fingerprint or face recognition to unlock your phone.
Enable remote wipe. Set up remote wipe capabilities to erase your information if your phone is stolen.
If your device is stolen, report it to your local police department. If you do track it to an EcoATM kiosk, notify the company via their customer service line. But, authorities warn people should never try to go out and find the phone on their own.
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This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
