Abstract: When a network-based wireless device such as a mobile phone or data terminal is reported lost or stolen or is determined to be malfunctioning, a service provider can immediately deny the device access to the network. However, any management operation to secure data carried by the wireless device cannot be carried out as the device is no longer reachable from the network. Therefore, the data should be secured before the device is rendered inoperable. Apparatus and methods are provided to back-up the data or wipe the data before the system denies access to the device. A system and method are provided by which a security manager works in conjunction with an equipment register of the network to lock and wipe data on the wireless device before the device is denied access to the network. Similarly, for a wireless device that is later recovered or determined to be operable, the device can be granted access to the network again and any data that was locked or wiped can be unlocked or restored over the network.