Losing a phone can be a stressful experience, but luckily, smartphones come with an International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number that can be used to track them. The IMEI number is a unique identification number assigned to each mobile device and can be found in several ways.
One way to find the IMEI number is by dialing *#06# on your phone’s keypad. The number will be displayed on the screen, and you can take a screenshot or write it down for future reference. Another way is to check the phone’s packaging or receipt, which should have the IMEI number printed on it.
If the phone is lost or stolen, you can use the IMEI number to track it through the mobile service provider or the police. The process may vary depending on the country and service provider, but in general, you will need to provide the IMEI number and file a report to begin the tracking process.
It is important to note that the IMEI number can also be used to block or lock a phone in case of theft or unauthorized use, so it is crucial to keep it safe and secure. By using the IMEI number, you can increase the chances of finding your lost phone and ensure its protection against theft.
IMEI Number- What is it?
Before you understand anything else, it is better to know what exactly is IMEI number. To explain it better, it is a 15-digited number that is provided on the box of the smartphone. It acts as the International Mobile Equipment Identity Number of the phone and remains unique for every single device. This number is almost similar to the fingertips and, after being registered, allows the manufacturers as well as the carrier networks to keep a complete track of the location of the device.
In case one’s smartphone is stolen, it is advised to report the same to the service provider and even ask them to block the IMEI number. With it being blocked, the block category database gets updated. Almost all of the carriers get this and follow the process.
Once the number is blocked, one wouldn’t be able to make/receive calls or receive/send messages. So, it is one great move to follow in case the device is stolen. It will help in preventing the number from getting coordinated for the illegal activities.
Finding IMEI Number on the Android & iPhone Models
To find the IMEI number on your phone, you can dial *#06# on the phone app, and the number will appear on the screen. Alternatively, you can also check the device’s settings to find the IMEI number. On both iOS and Android devices, go to the Settings app, select About Phone, and then click on Status or Phone Identity. You will find the IMEI number there. Make sure to note down both IMEI1 and IMEI2 numbers and keep them safe.
Android
- Simply Dial *#06# and get the pop-up of the IMEI number.
- Device Settings- open the settings and go to the option About Phone. There the IMEI details are available.
- The back of the phone also has a sticker print with the IMEI number. So, you can check the same to know your IMEI number.
- Check the box of the device where the IMEI details are provided on the sticker.
iPhone
- Just Dial *#06# and get the pop-up of the IMEI number.
- Device Settings- open Settings, go to General, and then option About Phone. Scroll down for the IMEI details.
- The back of the phone also has a sticker print with the IMEI number. So, you can check the same to know your IMEI number, but only if it’s still visible.
- Check the box of the device where the IMEI details are provided on the sticker.
Track your Lost Mobile Phone Using the IMEI Number- Steps
- File a report with the police regarding the stolen or the lost phone. Keep the report copy before beginning IMEI number tracking.
- Contact the service provider for issuing duplicate SIM cards. When the request for the IMEI number to be blocked is made, you will receive the OTP on your number. It wouldn’t allow tracking the phone but render it useless for anyone who would try to use it with their malicious intent.
- Block the IMEI number through https://ceir.gov.in/Request/CeirUserBlockRequestDirect.jsp, and if needed, attach a copy of the police report, purchase invoice, identity proof, etc.
- Next, you will receive the OTP on the phone. Remember, the number must be the same one that was active on the phone before the same was lost.
- Then a request ID will be received by you. Use it to check the status for unblocking IMEI if the same would be needed in the future.
What Next?
Once the complaint is filed for a missing or stolen phone, the network operator shares the IMEI number with a central database. This is done to ensure that even if the SIM card is removed and replaced, the device is still blocked from working on any network. This is a powerful move made by the Department of Telecom, aimed at helping the users.
Although it is not technically possible to track a lost mobile phone using the phone itself, it is possible to add the phone to an alert list through the network operator. This allows the phone to be identified when it is connected to any network. The process mentioned above makes it easy for law enforcement authorities and network operators to locate the device.
It is important to note that if you have lost your phone, you should contact your network operator immediately to report the loss. You will be required to provide the IMEI number of your phone. Once you have provided the necessary details, the operator will block your phone’s IMEI number and add it to the central database. This will ensure that your device cannot be used on any network, rendering it useless.
While it is not possible to track a lost phone using the phone itself, reporting the loss to your network operator can help in locating the device. It is crucial to keep your IMEI number safe and to report any loss or theft of your phone immediately to ensure that your phone is blocked and rendered unusable.
Can the IMEI number be changed by the Thieves?
Thieves can change the IMEI number of a stolen phone using a flasher or a device that connects the handset to a computer. Once modified, it becomes impossible to locate the lost phone. It is important to complete all the necessary processes as soon as possible to increase the chances of finding the lost phone.
Final Words
Losing a phone can be a stressful experience, and it’s important to be prepared and informed on how to handle the situation. This article has provided valuable information on how to locate a lost phone using its IMEI number, and what steps to take in case of theft or loss. It’s important to remember that safety should always be the top priority, and it’s not worth risking personal safety to retrieve a lost phone. Instead, let the authorities and professionals handle the situation, and be patient in the process.
While it’s not always possible to recover a lost phone, taking the necessary steps to report it missing and track it through its IMEI number can increase the chances of retrieval. It’s also important to remember that thieves may attempt to modify the IMEI number to avoid detection, so prompt action is key. By following the steps outlined in this article, individuals can be better prepared in case of a lost or stolen phone and increase the likelihood of a successful recovery. Remember to always prioritize safety and seek the help of professionals when needed.
