Ever wondered what an IMEI number is and how it matters to you, the end user? Well, you are in the right place. In this article, we will answer all your questions regarding IMEI numbers and also tell you the differences between IMEI numbers and serial numbers. So, without any further ado, let us get started!
What is IMEI or International Mobile Equipment Identity?
The IMEI, or International Mobile Equipment Identity, is a unique 15-digit number that every device gets assigned for each of its SIM trays or eSIM modules. This means a dual-SIM phone will have two IMEI numbers, and a single-SIM phone will have only one.
Unlike your SIM card, which can be easily swapped out for a different one, the IMEI number cannot be swapped since it’s unalterable. This makes an IMEI number useful for tracking devices, authorization, and more.
What are the use cases of IMEI numbers?
There are several applications and use cases for IMEI numbers. It can be a helpful identification number for both the manufacturer, seller, buyer, and the user of the device. Here are some of the most common use cases of an IMEI number:
- Device Identification—IMEI numbers can help identify the device from which you received a call or a message since each mobile device has a unique ID.
- Device Tracking—The unique ID can also help locate lost or stolen phones. If someone uses their SIM card on your Phone, you can receive a notification from your manufacturer or any carrier.
- Warranty and Support—Many device manufacturers use IMEI to authenticate the legitimacy of devices for warranty and support. This prevents counterfeits from gaining a foothold.
- Device Blocking—If your device is stolen and you can’t find a way to get it back, you can ask your manufacturer or the carriers to block the IMEI number remotely.
- Fraud Prevention—It prevents cloning and verifies device legitimacy, especially when selling it in the aftermarket, like OLX or Facebook Marketplace.
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How do you check the IMEI number on iPhone and Android?
Whether you have an iPhone or an Android, the universal way to check the IMEI number is by dialing *#06#. There are other options, too. We have listed them below, just in case someone is interested.
On iPhone:
- Go to Settings > General > About. Scroll down to find the IMEI number.
On Android:
- Go to Settings > About Phone > Status > IMEI Information.
- Original Box: Look at the original packaging box.
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Can I change the IMEI number on my phone?
No, you cannot change your Phone’s IMEI number. IMEIs are immutable and cannot be altered. Their main purpose or benefit comes from this fact.
Can I track my Phone using its IMEI number?
Yes, you can track your Phone using its IMEI number if the law in your region permits that and if your carrier is kind enough to help you do that. Even if your carrier denies any help, you can track your Phone’s IMEI using third-party services, but that’s not always recommended. You could be sacrificing your privacy, so it’s important to use authorized methods and services.
What is the difference between IMEI and serial number?
An IMEI number is a unique identifier for mobile devices used for tracking and network authorization. On the other hand, a serial number is also a unique identifier. Still, for a specific device from a manufacturer, it is used for warranty and support.
Basically, your device’s IMEI number is tied to the SIM card (as soon as it’s inserted), and the serial number is tied to the device itself. A device can have multiple IMEI numbers (usually two) but only one serial number.
Also, serial numbers can be found on all kinds of electronic devices. Still, IMEI numbers can only be found on mobile devices like phones and tablets. Finally, IMEI numbers are always 15 digits long, but serial numbers can vary in length.
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How do I check if my IMEI number is valid?
To verify if your IMEI number is valid, there are a few things that you need to keep in check:
- Check Format – Ensure the IMEI number is 15 digits long.
- Dial Code: Dial *#06# on your Phone to see the IMEI number. Save the number and match it against the IMEI on the device label or the IMEI.info site.
- Check Device Label – Check the device label under the battery or on the box. Usually, there’s a sticker on the back of your Phone or on the box with the IMEI number(s) written on it. You can try to match it against the IMEI that you got from dialing the code.
You can also contact your device’s manufacturer for verification of the IMEI number.
Are sites like IMEI.info and IMEI24.com legit and safe?
While websites like IMEI.info and IMEI24.com might be legit and give out accurate results, it’s not recommended to shell out your information (IMEI number) to just any random website. Sure, these sites can be helpful in some scenarios, but it’s not always advisable to use them, especially when you have better alternatives available.
Yes, alternatives from your carrier, your smartphone manufacturer, or even the government can also help you verify your IMEI number. Some smartphone manufacturers, like Vivo and Apple allow you to verify the IMEI officially via their website.
Is there any government-authorized site for IMEI verification?
Yes, there is a government-authorized site for IMEI verification. The Department of Telecommunications site allows you to verify your IMEI number by registering using your phone number and OTP. Once you’ve done that, you can enter the IMEI number for verification. Since this is a government-authorized site, you can rest assured (mostly) of the privacy and safety of your data.
The DOT also allows you to verify your IMEI number via SMS. Simply SMS “KYM <15 digit IMEI number>” to 14422, and you’ll instantly receive a reply with the manufacturer, device type, brand, and model number of the mobile device associated with the IMEI number.
For those who prefer using an app for these services, you can use the KYM application available on the Google Play Store and the App Store. Simply enter your IMEI number, and you will receive all the details associated with it.
The app also allows you to check if the IMEI number has been blacklisted, and thus gives you a warning if it has. Additionally, the app can verify if the IMEI number is valid or invalid.
How can I find IMEI number without my phone?
If your device is lost or stolen and you didn’t write down its IMEI number earlier, you can follow any of these methods to find it so you can report it to the police or file a request to block the IMEI number:
- Check the Smartphone’s Box–Whether you have an iPhone or an Android, check the box of your smartphone to find the IMEI number.
- Use Google’s Find My Device–If your phone is logged in to Google Find My Device, visit the Google Find My Device website or app and sign in using the same Google account that was used on the lost or stolen device. Tap on your smartphone’s name, then tap on the cog icon to see the IMEI number listed there.
- Visit Apple’s Website–For iPhones, go to appleid.apple.com or account.apple.com on any browser. Sign in using your Apple ID/Apple Account, click on your iPhone, and note down the IMEI number.
- Contact Customer Support–If you have your device’s serial number, which you can find on the invoice of your device, contact customer support. Provide them with the serial number, and they should be able to help you retrieve that IMEI number.
How can I track or block lost phones with IMEI?
First of all, you can try using Find My or a similar service to track your lost phone. If that fails, you can use the IMEI to track or block your lost phone. Thankfully, a government-authorized site is available to help you with that.
All you need to do is fill out a simple form with your details, including the phone’s invoice, IMEI numbers, SIM card numbers, and the police complaint number. After verification, your phone will be tracked by the police or blocked, if necessary. You will receive a request ID via SMS and/or email. Make sure to note it down.
You can check the status of your lost phone using the request ID from here. If you or the police find the phone and need to unblock the IMEI number, you can use the request ID that was sent to you when you initially blocked the IMEI number. Follow this link.
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