Frequently asked questions

What is an IMEI number?

IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique 15-digit number assigned to every mobile phone. It helps identify the exact device model and is used by carriers and manufacturers for warranty, activation, and lost/stolen registries.

How do I find the IMEI on Android?
  • Settings: Settings → About phone → Status or IMEI information
  • Dial code: Open Phone app and enter *#06#
  • Physical: Original box label, SIM tray, or device back (older models)
What’s the difference between IMEI, serial number, and MEID?

IMEI is a 15-digit mobile equipment identifier used globally for network and registry checks. Serial number is the manufacturer’s internal ID (Apple uses it for warranty support). MEID is a 14-digit hex identifier used on some CDMA devices. For buying a used phone, IMEI is the standard number to verify.

My phone has two IMEI numbers — which one should I use?

On dual-SIM devices, use IMEI 1 (primary SIM slot) for verification. IMEI 2 can sometimes show a different registry result. If in doubt, check both numbers or ask the seller to provide IMEI 1 from Settings → About.

What does “blacklisted” or “bad IMEI” mean?

A blacklisted IMEI may appear in a lost, stolen, or unpaid-device registry. Carriers can block such devices from their networks. Always check before purchase — we show registry status when data is available.

How do I find the IMEI on my iPhone?
  • Settings: Settings → General → About → IMEI
  • Dial code: Open Phone app and enter *#06#
  • Physical: On older models, IMEI may be printed on the SIM tray or back of the device
  • Packaging: Original box label often shows IMEI
Is this IMEI check free?

Yes. The basic report on this page is free. The service is supported by advertising. No account or payment is required for the standard check.

What information does the report show?

Depending on availability from data sources, the report may include:

  • Device model, color, and storage capacity
  • Serial number and model number
  • Warranty and purchase date (if available)
  • Find My iPhone / iCloud status indicators
  • SIM lock / carrier lock status
  • GSMA blacklist status
What is SIM lock (carrier lock)?

A SIM-locked phone works only with SIM cards from a specific carrier until the carrier removes the lock. Our report shows the lock status when data is available. For carrier restrictions, contact your original network provider — this site provides verification only, not device modification services.

What is Find My iPhone (FMI)?

Find My is Apple’s anti-theft feature. If “Find My” is ON, the device is linked to the owner’s Apple ID. Before buying a used iPhone, make sure the seller has signed out and removed the device from their account.

Why should I check IMEI before buying a used phone?
  • Confirm the model matches what the seller claims
  • Avoid blacklisted (reported lost/stolen) devices
  • Check if Find My is still active
  • See if the phone is carrier-locked
Why did my check fail or show “not found”?
  • IMEI entered incorrectly — verify all 15 digits
  • Temporary server or data source issue — try again in a few minutes
  • Very new or rare device — data may not yet be in databases

Still having trouble? Contact support.

Is my IMEI stored or shared?

We process IMEI numbers to generate your report. Limited logs may be kept for security and support. We do not sell personal data. Details are in our Privacy Policy.

Can an IMEI number be changed or faked?

IMEI cloning is illegal in many countries. Some scammers alter software-displayed numbers — always verify using *#06# on the device itself, not only what the seller shows on screen. If numbers do not match, do not buy.

Can I check an IMEI without having the phone?

Yes, if you have the 15-digit IMEI from the seller, box label, or receipt. For used purchases, we still recommend meeting in person and dialing *#06# before payment.

Is the IMEI the same as the SIM card number?

No. IMEI identifies the device. ICCID identifies the SIM card. They are different numbers used for different purposes.

How do I see if a phone is carrier-locked using IMEI?

Run a free check on our IMEI Check page. When data is available, the report shows SIM-lock or carrier-lock status. This is informational only — contact your carrier to confirm restrictions.

Can this tool detect cloned or counterfeit phones?

A check can reveal model mismatches, invalid IMEI structure, or registry flags. It cannot guarantee hardware authenticity — inspect the device, compare serial numbers, and buy from trusted sellers.

Can I check Android phones?

This tool is optimized for Apple devices (iPhone, iPad). Android IMEI checks may be added in the future. Android IMEI is also found via *#06# or Settings → About phone.