Let's face it: if you lose your smartphone or tablet, there's only a small chance that you will get it back. Unless the thief begins syncing selfies to your iCloud account (yes, that actually happened), it is going to be very difficult to actually locate your device once it has been stolen, no matter what tracking software you have installed.
However, what happens if your device is picked up by an honest person who wants to return it to you. If you have a lock screen with a passcode (I recommend you do!), the person cannot call "Home" or "Mom" to let someone know your phone has been found. Most phones will allow a person who finds your phone to contact your "In case of emergency" numbers, but that's just one extra step the person has to go through in order to get to you.
Fortunately, there's a simple solution! You can program your phone to display your contact information on the lock screen. That way, when that honest person finds your phone, they can contact you directly.
On Android, go to the Settings app and search for the "Owner Information" option. Looking online, it appears that it is usually under the "Security" option, but on my phone (Galaxy S3), it was under a separate category titled "Lock Screen". Once you find "Owner Information", enter your contact information and make sure the "Display on Lock Screen" option is checked. The information should now show up on your lock screen. However, I have seen reports that it can disappear for other messages if your phone is charging or is low on battery.
On iOS, there is no "Owner Information" option. However, all hope is not lost. You can edit your lock screen photo in any photo editor (even the Windows Paint program will work) and type your information somewhere on the screen. There are also apps you can download that will add the information automatically.
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