What's in a Number? The Essential Guide to IMEI

The IMEI or International Mobile Equipment Identity serves as your phone’s unique identifier, functioning similarly to a fingerprint. It’s a 15-digit number that allows your device to be tracked if stolen or compromised. Mobile carriers and manufacturers share these numbers to establish a digital identity for your device.

Unlike the device’s serial number, which manufacturers use internally, the IMEI number enjoys standardization and shared use across the mobile industry. You may want to know how to check if phone is carrier locked and you would need to know the IMEI to be able do that.

Locating Your IMEI Number

Finding your IMEI number is typically as simple as dialing *#06#. If this doesn’t yield the expected result, your device’s settings will likely hold the answer. The process varies slightly based on your device type:

• iPhone: Open settings, navigate to General, then select About Phone. Scroll down until you see the IMEI number. Keep in mind that you may see an additional number, IMEI2, which corresponds to your virtual sim. If you’re using a physical sim card, you only need the first IMEI number. Check to see your iPhones supports eSIM, which is now a standard.
• Android: Open your settings and scroll to About Phone. You’ll find your IMEI number here.
• All Others: Phones with removable batteries: You may find your IMEI number on a sticker underneath the battery.

Verifying Your IMEI Number

Websites such as IMEI.info can inform you if your device’s IMEI is problematic.

Some carriers also provide free IMEI checkers on their websites. AT&T provides an excellent free one, you will receive more information if you’re purchasing an AT&T IMEI based device. AT&T will tell you with their free IMEI checker:

• Was the device paid in full or if it is still on an installment plan
• Has it been reported as lost, stolen, or involved with fraud
• If the device has a past-due account balance
• AT&T Prepaid® phone

If you’re considering buying a used phone, checking its IMEI status can protect you from purchasing a non-working device or stolen property.

Blocked or Blacklisted IMEI

When an IMEI is blocked or blacklisted, it means that the device associated with that IMEI has been flagged as lost, stolen, or involved in some form of fraudulent activity. The purpose of blocking or blacklisting an IMEI is to prevent the device from being used on mobile networks, rendering it essentially useless for communication purposes.

1. When a mobile device is reported as lost or stolen, the owner or authorized entity can report the IMEI number to their mobile service provider or local authorities. The IMEI is then added to a global database of blocked or blacklisted devices.
2. Network Lock: Once an IMEI is flagged as blocked or blacklisted, mobile network operators are informed about it. When a device with a blocked IMEI attempts to connect to a mobile network, the network operator recognizes the blocked status and denies network access. The device will not be able to make calls, send messages, or use mobile data on any compatible network.
3. Reasons for Blocking: IMEI blocking is primarily done to deter theft and unauthorized use of mobile devices. It helps discourage criminals from benefiting from stolen devices and reduces the incentive for device theft. IMEI blocking can also be implemented in cases of contract violations or fraudulent activities associated with a specific device.
4. Permanent Status: Generally, a blocked or blacklisted IMEI remains in the database indefinitely, even if the device is recovered. The owner of the device, in cooperation with the relevant authorities, may need to go through a process to remove the blocked status from the IMEI.

It’s important to note that the process of blocking or blacklisting an IMEI is a preventive measure taken by mobile service providers and law enforcement agencies. If you believe your device has been wrongfully blocked or blacklisted, you should contact your mobile service provider or local authorities to address the issue.

IMEI versus SIM

While both IMEI numbers and SIM cards are used by phone carriers, they serve different purposes. The IMEI number identifies your device, while the SIM card connects to your phone provider and stores information like your phone number and plan.

1. The IMEI is a unique identifier assigned to a mobile device. It is a 15-digit number that is permanently embedded in the device hardware. The IMEI serves as a means to identify and track individual mobile devices. It is used by network operators to authenticate devices on their networks and can be used to track lost or stolen phones. The IMEI is not tied to a specific mobile network or SIM card.
2. SIM (Subscriber Identity Module): The SIM card is a small, removable smart card that is inserted into a mobile device to establish connectivity with a specific mobile network. The SIM card contains information such as the user’s phone number, network authentication details, and other data related to the subscriber. It provides the necessary credentials for the device to connect to the network and make calls, send messages, and access mobile data. The SIM card can be transferred between compatible devices, allowing the user to retain their phone number and subscription details.

In summary, the IMEI is a unique identifier tied to the hardware of the mobile device itself, while the SIM card is a removable card that provides network connectivity and subscriber information. The IMEI is used to identify the device, while the SIM card is used to identify the subscriber and establish connectivity with the network.

Learn Which Size SIM Card Your iPhone or iPad Uses

Why Two IMEI Numbers?

Devices with Dual SIM card features or a virtual SIM may display two IMEI numbers in the settings. This corresponds to one IMEI per SIM slot and is completely normal. If you’re using a single, physical SIM, the first IMEI number should be your focus.

This allows the device to support two different phone numbers and simultaneously connect to two different mobile networks. Users can switch between SIM cards or use them for different purposes, such as separating personal and work contacts or utilizing different network providers for cost optimization or network coverage reasons.

By having two IMEI numbers, dual SIM phones ensure that each SIM card is recognized by the network as a separate device, enabling independent functionality and connectivity for each SIM card slot.

Can an IMEI Number Be Tracked?

The IMEI is tracked by different cell providers, but location data is not associated with the IMEI number unless it has active cell service. Therefore, your physical location or personal information cannot be inferred from the IMEI number alone. The IMEI number identifies the device, not the individual user.

Here’s how the tracking process works:

1. Reporting the IMEI: If your phone is lost or stolen, you can report the IMEI number to your mobile service provider or local law enforcement. They can add the IMEI to a global database of lost or stolen devices.
2. Tracking by Network Operators: Mobile network operators have access to equipment that can track devices based on their IMEI numbers. When a phone is connected to a cellular network, the network operator can identify the IMEI number and track the device’s approximate location within the coverage area.
3. Cooperation with Law Enforcement: Law enforcement agencies can work with network operators to track and locate devices using their IMEI numbers. They can request assistance from the network operator to track a specific IMEI and potentially locate the device.

It’s important to note that tracking a device based on its IMEI number requires the cooperation of network operators and law enforcement authorities. Ordinary users do not have direct access to IMEI tracking capabilities. If your phone is lost or stolen, it is recommended to report it to the relevant authorities and your mobile service provider, who can assist in the tracking process.

Is It Safe to Share Your IMEI?