a method and mobile terminal are disclosed for use in a wireless communication system , in order to increase security of the mobile terminal when it is lost , stolen , or misplaced by a user . the method includes receiving a guard message at the mobile terminal , authenticating the guard message , locking at least one communication capability of the mobile terminal , and also securing at least some data that is stored in the mobile terminal . initiation of the method requires inputting a personal identification code at a location separate from the mobile terminal .