IoT Enabled Smartphone Theft Detection System

Abstract

Smart phones are increasingly targeted for theft, resulting in data loss and security risks for users. This paper presents an IoT-enabled smart phone theft detection system designed to provide real-time alerts and active protection using a multi-sensor approach. The proposed solution integrates capacitive touch sensors, a fingerprint sensor, and a light-dependent resistor (LDR) within a custom smart phone case controlled by an ESP32 microcontroller. Strategic placement of touch sensors ensures detection whenever the phone is gripped, while the LDR distinguishes pocket removal events. Upon detection, the user is given a five-second window to authenticate using the fingerprint sensor; failure to do so activates a continuous buzzer alarm and immediately triggers a notification to the Blynk IoT app, which includes precise location coordinates. The system allows authorized users to silence alarms through a dedicated switch or ESP32 enable pin. This embedded design provides an affordable, user-friendly way to enhance device security, combining IoT communication, quick biometric verification, and context-aware detection. Experimental results show the effectiveness of the system in accurately identifying unauthorized actions and promptly alerting owners. The methodology offers scalable potential for future integration of AI techniques to further personalize and optimize theft detection and prevention.