Smartphone ‘kill switch’ bill now a law in California

California Governor Jerry Brown signs a bill on Monday mandating all smartphones sold in the state to be equipped with a “kill switch” to turn it inoperable if stolen or lost.

The new law, which will take effect on July 1, 2015, requires all smartphones sold in California to be equipped with anti-theft technology. It was passed in response to the increasing number of smartphone theft in the state.

Under the new legislation, smartphone makers will be mandated to equip phones sold in the state with “kill switch” technology that will allow phone’s owner to wipe information from their device and remotely lock it in case the phone was stolen or lost.

If the smartphone is later recovered, the owner can restore the functionality and data of his or her phone.

The new “kill switch” law also requires technology that prevents the smartphone from being reactivated without requiring for the owner’s identification, and it also requires manufacturers to inform consumers that the technology is available on their phones.

Bakudaily.Az