A method and apparatus for protecting data in a remote electronic device serviced by a network provider and used by a subscriber. Initially, a communication from the subscriber indicating loss of the remote electronic device by the subscriber is received at a site operated by the network provider. Next, an attempt is made, from the site operated by the network provider, to contact the remote electronic device via a wireless link. If the initial attempt to contact the remote electronic device is unsuccessful, further attempts are then made at regular intervals from the site operated by the network provider to contact the remote electronic device via the wireless link, until contact is made between the site operated by the network provider and the remote electronic device. After contact is made with the remote electronic device from the site operated by the network provider, the site operated by the network provider transmits at least one data recovery signal to the remote electronic device. The at least one data recovery signal disables normal operation of the remote electronic device and deletes, downloads or places in safe mode at least one file stored in the remote electronic device.