Insi and the Ministry of Justice and Public Security launch the Celular Seguro app, a step in combating crime in Brazil, showcasing technology as an ally for societal well-being.
A government-commissioned survey revealed that public security is the population’s top concern, surpassing even healthcare. According to the Ministry of Justice and Public Security, approximately 1 million reports of cell phone thefts and robberies were recorded in 2022, though this is considered an underreported figure due to bureaucratic hurdles in filing complaints. Beyond handling a large volume of actions, the app must also support a high number of registrations and users, as many people own multiple devices. With access via gov.br login, an estimated 155 million people can use the app.
The government’s new Celular Seguro app is an initiative to combat urban violence by directly disabling stolen devices. In simple terms, the app allows users to block the functions of a stolen phone. You can block the device’s IMEI through Anatel, and your bank automatically takes preventive measures regarding your account. To use it, download the “Celular Seguro” app or access the website with your gov.br login, then register a trusted contact (you can add multiple). If your phone is stolen, lost, or robbed, use the app on a trusted contact’s device or via the website to report the incident. Anatel will block the device using the provided IMEI, and your bank will take appropriate action. Thirteen entities are currently involved with immediate actions through the Celular Seguro app. However, each has its own policies for handling thefts and robberies—some banks block the complainant’s account, while others reduce spending limits, for example. Involved entities: Anatel, Banco do Brasil, Bradesco, BTG Pactual, Caixa, Inter, Itaú, Pan, Safra, Santander, Sicoob, Sicredi, and XP. More entities will join in the future.
The app was entirely developed by a Insi team! We take pride in being part of such a significant project. The platform is accessible via web (desktop site) and iOS/Android mobile apps. The Insi team included backend, frontend, and mobile developers, DevOps, scrum masters, QA, and requirements analysts. To develop the first version, we used the MJSP’s estimate of approximately 2,700 daily reported cell phone thefts. Accounting for underreporting, the app was designed to handle five times that number, ensuring it can support Brazil’s large population. Additionally, the first version allows users to update their registered trusted contact.
Insi and the Ministry of Justice and Public Security (MJSP) have a long-standing partnership, having developed successful projects in software factory and system support. A notable project with national impact was our active role in developing Brazil’s new national ID card, currently used by 12 million Brazilians (as of September 2024).
Learn more about Insi’s success case with the Ministry of Justice: