Problem: Thieves Disable Phones to Avoid Detection
When a thief steals a phone, their first move is often to disable it by shutting it down or activating airplane mode. This cuts off tracking features and blocks apps that could alert the phone’s owner.
Solution: Block Power Menu and Notification Shade
To combat this, I’ve added a special feature to CrookCatcher that blocks the power menu and notification shade. Here is how it works:
- CrookCatcher detects when someone tries to open the power menu or notification shade on the lock screen.
- Then, it instantly turns off the screen, stopping the thief in their tracks. It also takes a photo of the thief and emails it to you along with the phone’s location.
You can find this feature in the “Experimental Features” section of the app’s settings. Due to the large number of different android phones, I cannot guarantee that it will work on your phone, but it’s free so give it a try! Download CrookCatcher on Google Play.

Other Suggestions for Keeping Your Phone Safe
In addition to CrookCatcher, here are some extra steps to secure your phone:
Enable Google’s “Find My Device”:
- Track your phone remotely.
- Lock your device or wipe data if it’s stolen.
Use Strong Security Settings:
- A password is the strongest screen lock.
Keep Your Phone Updated:
- Regular software updates improve security and protect against vulnerabilities.
Be Mindful of Public Spaces:
- Keep your phone in secure, hard-to-access pockets or bags.
More Benefits of CrookCatcher
Beyond blocking thieves from disabling your phone, CrookCatcher offers additional features:
- Take pictures and videos when someone enters the wrong PIN, pattern or password.
- Receive evidence with GPS location by email
- Play theft alart sounds
- Show a fake home screen to fool thieves.
- Upload pictures and videos to Google Drive
- Discover all features in the app.
Download CrookCatcher now and take the first step toward keeping your phone—and your privacy—safe.