Absolutely !... If the phone doesn't belong to you - and you do something to it to inhibit the legal owner's service - you are causing malicious damage.
Malicious Software
Malicious falsehood is a false statement intentionally made to cause damage to a person's business reputation.
malware
Malicious Damage is a crime on the Law Books in many countries. Crimes of Passion may be part of written Law in some countries but not in all countries
Vandalism and Malicious Mischief refers to intentional damage or destruction caused to property by individuals with malicious intent. This can include acts such as graffiti, broken windows, or other forms of deliberate harm. It is typically covered under property insurance policies, although specific coverage may vary.
Malware, short for malicious software, is software designed to infiltrate a computer system without the owner's informed consent. Some computers are invaded with malware that causes damage to the computers. Malicous computer is a computer that has a malicious code and it is passing it to other computers.
Malicious means, "having the nature of or resulting from malice; deliberately harmful; spiteful".
depends on the statute of limitations in your state
Another name for crackers is black hat hackers. Black hat hackers use their skills for malicious purposes such as stealing sensitive information, disrupting operations, or causing damage to systems.
Many pop-ups include malicious software that can damage your computer. It is best to try to block pop-ups that can damage your system.
This would be covered under Malicious or accidental damage if your insurance company provides this.