What to do if your iPhone is lost or stolen

With the exception of dropping their iPhone and shattering the screen, having their precious mobile device lost or stolen is just about the most nerve-wracking thing that can happen to an iPhone user.

People are more dependent than ever on their iPhones, practically living their entire lives on the Web, and the loss is not one that would be taken lightly. Imagine the horror: one moment, you're in 2012 posting tweets about your dinner and checking in on Foursquare, and a few moments later you have been transported to 1975 and are looking for a payphone so you can contact AT&T about deactivating your lost iPhone. Worse yet, in the event that the device was stolen, you have to deal with resentful feelings, iPhone withdrawals (admit it: you're addicted), and anxiety over the fact that your personal information is now in jeopardy.

So, the question is, what should your action plan be in the event that your iPhone disappears? Well, you really should be taking preventative measures before the device has a chance to go missing. There are numerous steps you can take ahead of time that will make it easier for you to protect your personal data and locate your missing device in the event that it is lost or stolen. We have listed these preventative steps you can take below. Remember, "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure."