Dylan Ray
30 Aug 2024
If you are buying a new phone, don’t forget to verify its authenticity, whether it is sold by a third party, stolen, or blocked. Now, comes the role of IMEI. It ensures the device's smooth cellular connectivity and security. The number contributes to tracking lost or stolen devices. But the question is how it works, where we can find it, and how it facilitates tracking your device.
Let's delve into the IMEI number details to get the answers to your queries.
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IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a 15-digit number that is different from a serial number and is used to identify and track devices when needed. All GSM phones have this number, while CDMA devices have a MEID number.
An electronic record of these IMEI numbers is called an EIR (Equipment Identity Register), which keeps track of all mobile phones with valid IMEI numbers. A mobile phone's IMEI number serves as the EIR's way of identifying whether it is authorized by a mobile network to send a phone call or SMS.
The international mobile equipment identity number is a 15-digit code that enables tracking of your smartphones. For example, the 12-345678-912345-6. The structure of IMEI is broken down into the following parts.
Every mobile phone has its unique identity. If your phone gets lost or stolen, the phone operator can block the phone with the IMEI number. The device has been added to the blocklist and can’t access the cellular network. The IMEI number can help law enforcement locate your device when connected to the network. This number enhances the device’s security and helps to track a lost mobile.
You can easily find the IMEI number from your device settings. It is also shown on the device packaging. You can follow the steps to locate the International Mobile Equipment Identity number of devices.
Note: Check the official Apple page to find the IMEI number on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch.
Note: Check the official Verizon page to find the IME number on your Android.
Enter the USSD code *#06# in the dial bar of your Android or iPhone device. Your device will display the IMEI number on the screen.
I tried to answer all of your questions related to the IMEI number in this article. IMEI code is unique for each device, which ensures its security and authentication. You should remember the IMEI to protect your device from fraudulent activities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
No one can track your phone without the IMEI code. However, police and operators can track your location through IMEI.
No, sharing your device’s IMEI number on unauthorised sites leads to security issues. Therefore, don’t share your identification code with anyone.
Enter *#06# in your device’s dialer; the IMEI number will display on your device screen. Now, search for the online IMEI checkers and confirm whether the code is valid.
Can I find my lost or stolen device through the IMEI number? Yes, it could be possible. This 15-digit number can be used for your device tracking. Here is how it works.
Your device operator can block network access to your device through the IMEI number.
Don’t share your device's identification number with unauthorised tracking apps. They may scam and steal your information.
People have mixed opinions about changing the IMEI number. Identification numbers can’t be hacked or facked because it is stored in the phone's hardware. However, some apps can be used to fake the IMEI number. You can change the identity number via Service/Engineer Mode. Changing the number interrupts the device’s functionality because your device is backlisted and can’t connect to any network.
International Mobile Equipment Identity is a 15-digit code that contributes to tracking the robbed or lost devices. On the other hand, a serial number is a 10 to 15-digit unique identification code that is assigned to users by manufacturers.
Here, I am discussing the differences between these numbers based on purpose, location, and usage.
IMEI blacklisting means the operator restricts your device’s access to other networks and adds IMEI to the blocklist. It happens when you report to the operator about your device is lost. Sometimes, it happens when users delay paying bills or are involved in fraudulent activities.
Two are used to check whether your phone’s IMEI code is added to the blacklist.
You can find our snatched or lost devices if you remember the IMEI code. You can report this to your mobile operator. The operator blocks your device through the number. Now, the criminal can not access other networks on your device. If you find your phone, you can unlock it.
Users can unlock the blacklisted device. However, the process for unlocking depends on the reason for blacklisting.
At this time, IMEI, ICCID and EID numbers are the advanced numbers that serve different purposes. Here’s how IMEI is different from ICCID and EID:
It helps locate your phone when it gets stolen or you lose it. You will report your mobile reporter and give them your IMEI number. They will block your phone. It means the thief could not use your device either by inserting a new SIM Card because the phone has already been blacklisted. The thief wouldn’t also be able to sell it to any company because they’ll first check the IMEI of the device, and it's been blocked.
IMEI is the most important feature of your phone or any other valid devices you use, like tablets, smartwatches or laptops. All types of these devices and phones have IMEI numbers. You can easily check your IMEI through your device’s settings or your mobile’s settings.
You need to provide your IMEI. A device's IMEI number helps determine whether your device is carrier-locked or unlocked by uniquely identifying the device and allowing carriers and online tools to verify that it is unlocked.
