The IMEI number (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique 15-digit code assigned to every mobile device, and this number is crucial for identifying your phone, especially in cases of theft or loss.
Knowing how to find your IMEI number can help you track your device, perform an IMEI check, and even block unauthorized use, whether you’re using an Android or iPhone, there are several ways to locate your mobile IMEI number.
What is an IMEI Number?
The IMEI code is like a fingerprint for your phone which is unique and irreplaceable and it helps network providers identify and track devices on their networks.
The IMEI tracker feature can be used by law enforcement and carriers to locate lost or stolen phones. Additionally, it plays a key role in verifying the authenticity of a device, especially when buying second-hand phones.
How to Find IMEI Number on Android and iPhone
There are several methods available to check your mobile phone’s IMEI number
Using Dial a Code
The easiest way to find the IMEI number on any phone is by dialing *#06# using the phone dialer.
This works for both Android and iPhones:
- Open the Phone app.
- Dial
*#06#on the keypad. - The IMEI number will automatically pop up on the screen.
This method works for most BSNL and other mobile phones, including those compatible with BSNL 4G services and also works universally across all devices, including those with dual SIM slots, which will display two IMEI numbers.
Check Phone Settings
You can also find your IMEI number through your phone’s settings:
- On Android: Go to Settings > About Phone > Status and scroll down to find the IMEI.
- On iPhone: Navigate to Settings > General > About, then scroll down until you see the IMEI number.
Locate IMEI on SIM Tray
For iPhones and some Android models, the IMEI number is printed on the SIM card tray:
- Eject the SIM tray using a pin or paper clip.
- Look for the IMEI code printed on the tray.
Find IMEI on the Retail Box
If you still have your phone’s original packaging, you can find the IMEI number printed on a label on the box.
Use Google Dashboard or iCloud
If you’ve lost your phone, you can retrieve its IMEI number online:
- For Android users: Log into your Google account and visit Google Dashboard. Select your device to view its details, including the IMEI.
- For iPhone users: Log into iCloud.com or Apple ID page, select your device under “Devices,” and find the IMEI.
How to Find Lost Phone IMEI Number
If you’ve lost access to your phone, there are still ways to retrieve its IMEI:
- Google Find My Device (Android) or iCloud Find My iPhone (iPhone) allows you to track your device and view its details.
- Check old purchase receipts or invoices from when you bought the phone.
- Contact your carrier, as they often keep records of devices associated with your account.
Why Knowing Your IMEI Number Important?
Knowing your IMEI number is crucial for security purposes, especially if your phone is lost or stolen. It can help you block your BSNL SIM card and prevent unauthorized usage.
The IMEI number serves multiple purposes:
- Tracking Lost Devices: You can provide the IMEI code to law enforcement or use it with an IMEI tracker app for locating a lost or stolen phone.
- Blocking Stolen Phones: If your phone is stolen, you can request your carrier to blacklist its IMEI, preventing it from being used on their network.
- Verifying Authenticity: When buying second-hand phones, an IMEI check ensures that the device isn’t stolen or counterfeit.
In 2024, mobile security has advanced with features like:
- IMEI blacklist check: Ensures that a phone hasn’t been reported stolen before purchasing second-hand devices.
- Digital IMEI verification: Many apps now offer digital verification for added security.
- IMEI tracking apps: These apps allow users to track their devices in real-time using their unique mobile identifier.
Once you’ve found your IMEI number, it’s a good idea to keep it safe along with other important information about your BSNL connection. This includes your BSNL customer care number for quick access to support services when needed.
FAQs
How do I find my phone’s serial number?
You can typically find the serial number in Settings > About Phone for Android or Settings > General > About for iPhones.
Can I find my phone’s IMEI without having it?
Yes! You can retrieve it from Google Dashboard (Android) or Apple ID/iCloud (iPhone). You can also check old receipts or contact your carrier.
Where is the IMEI number located on an iPhone?
You can find it in Settings > General > About, on the SIM tray, or printed on the original packaging.
How do I check if my phone’s IMEI is blacklisted?
You can use online tools like imei.info or imei24.com for a free blacklist check of your device’s status.
Can I track my lost phone using its IMEI?
Yes! While carriers and law enforcement primarily use this feature, some third-party apps allow tracking via an IMEI tracker. The following are some of the available online services for mobile user in different platforms which may check and use
Available Services
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Free Online Blacklist Check | Check if a device is blacklisted using its IMEI |
| Warranty Status Checker | Verify warranty details using an online checker |
| Device Tracking Apps | Apps that use GPS and IMEI for real-time tracking |
In conclusion, knowing how to locate and use your phone IMEI number is crucial for security purposes such as tracking lost devices and verifying authenticity when purchasing second-hand phones and always keep this information safe.
