What is the IMEI number? What is it used for & How to find it?

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.

4.9

Highly Rated

Based on 500,000+ customer reviews

Trusted worldwide

Over 1 million travelers across the globe have trusted us

Travel Friendly

No swaps, global connectivity ensured

With eSIM Card, you can save 100% on roaming fees

Buy eSIM

What is an IMEI number?

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.

IMEI Number Structure Breakdown

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. 

• The first eight numbers (12-345678) of IMEI identify your device’s manufacturers and models. These are called type allocation codes (TAC).
• The next six numbers (912345) after TAC are called serial numbers.  
• The last digit (6) is a check digit. It ensures the accuracy of the device’s identification number. 

Why is an IMEI number important?

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. 

How to find your IMEI number?

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. 

How to check IMEI number on an iPhone?

• Open your iPhone Settings. 
• Scroll down to find General.
• Look for About in the General section.
• Find the IMEI number on this page.
• Tap the IMEI number, and it will be displayed on the screen.

Note: Check the official Apple page to find the IMEI number on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch.

How to check the IMEI number on Android?

• Open your Android Settings.
• Tap the About section.
• Now, scroll to Status and click on IMEI Details.
• The number will show on the screen.

Note: Check the official Verizon page to find the IME number on your Android.

How to check IMEI using the USSD code?

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.

Conclusion

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) 

Can someone track my phone with my IMEI number?

No one can track your phone without the IMEI code. However, police and operators can track your location through IMEI.

Is it safe to share my IMEI number?

No, sharing your device’s IMEI number on unauthorised sites leads to security issues. Therefore, don’t share your identification code with anyone. 

How do I check if my IMEI is valid?

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. 

How to use an IMEI number for device tracking?

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.

Operator Access Device

Your device operator can block network access to your device through the IMEI number.

• Police use this number with the tracking app to find your device.
• Find my phone on Android and iPhone devices using IMEI to locate your mobile phone.

Don’t share your device's identification number with unauthorised tracking apps. They may scam and steal your information. 

Can you change or fake an IMEI number?

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. 

What’s the Difference? IMEI vs. Serial Number

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 Number Feature

• Main Objective: Network authentication and tracking.
• Location: Integrated into the device.
• Used Device Type: Mobile phone with cellular data.
• Providers: Devices carriers

Serial Number Feature

• Main Objective: Used for the device's internal processes, like warranty and tracking.
• Location: Stick on the devices, or listed in the settings.
• Used Device Type: All products with a serial number.
• Providers: Manufacturers.

What is IMEI blacklisting?

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. 

How to check if an IMEI is blacklisted?

Two are used to check whether your phone’s IMEI code is added to the blacklist. 

• Verify it from the GSMA database. Enter your International Mobile Equipment Identity code in the GSMA database and confirm the blacklist status.
• Online IMEI website checkers help to confirm your device lock. Once you enter the identity number, the website will provide you with the IMEI details.

How are IMEI numbers used for SIM locking?

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.

How is IMEI different from other identifiers?

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:

1. ICCID(Integrated Circuit Card Identifier) is a 19-20 digit number used to connect devices to the mobile network.
2. EID(Embedded Identity Document) is a 32-digit number used to identify the devices with an installed embedded SIM. It helps manage eSIM profiles and enables users to switch carriers without the hassle of physically swapping SIM cards.

How does an IMEI work for the security of your phone?

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. 

What types of phones have IMEI numbers? 

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.

How does IMEI help to check if your device is carrier unlocked or not?

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.