The problem of counterfeit and non-original smartphones is relevant and requires the attention of potential buyers.
Previously, a fake could be distinguished from the original quite simply, because it was very different from the original phone. The obvious difference was in almost everything: appearance, build quality and screen, software features and, of course, price.
Today, it has become difficult to recognize non-original phones. Chinese manufacturers have risen to a new level - now fake devices differ slightly from the originals. If the user has not previously held a real gadget in his hands, he may not notice the substitution at all.
Not only branded smartphones, for example, Apple and Samsung, but also popular Chinese brands of well-known companies - Xiaomi, Meizu, Vivo and others, manage to counterfeit. In order not to fall into the hands of scammers, you must definitely check the device. You can do this with a few simple tips.
Check by IMEI
The most popular method that can be applied to gadgets of any manufacturer is checking by IMEI. This is a special device that is assigned to devices by the manufacturer at the production stage. Usually IMEI consists of 15 digits:
- the first 6 indicate the batch number;
- the next 2 - the code of the country of manufacture;
- then 6 digits show the serial number of the smartphone;
- the last digit is the main one and allows you to check the phone for originality.
IMEI is in the warranty card and on the phone itself - usually under the battery. It needs to be checked against the code, which can be found in the settings. To check the match, you must dial the combination of numbers * # 06 #. The 15 digits that appear must completely match those indicated in the settings, warranty card, case and on the box of the device. If there are any discrepancies, then something is not clean with the gadget - either the device itself, or the box or documents have been replaced.
If the codes match, you need to check the IMEI according to the manufacturer's database - scammers are powerless here.
- Xiaomi - http://www.mi.com/verify/#imei_en . A separate article about Xiaomi verification.
- Huawei/Honor - https://consumer.huawei.com/
Features and Applications
Another quick and easy way to check the device for originality is to compare the characteristics of a smartphone with those listed on the official website of the manufacturer. To be sure, you can use third-party applications, such as AnTuTu or CPU-Z.
There is also a special program for checking the authenticity of phones -. Just download it to your smartphone and click the "Verify Phone" button. Next, you need to follow the link and scan the QR code that appears. After these manipulations, the program will analyze the device and report whether the phone is original or not.
It is worth noting that some fake devices have a pre-installed patched version of AnTuTu, which shows fake characteristics and misleads the user. In order not to fall for the trick, download the latest version of the application on Google Play.
External signs
Particular attention should be paid to the appearance of the smartphone and build quality. Very often a fake can be recognized thanks to the screen - despite the fact that its diagonal is usually identical to the original, you can see a small strip of white or silver color above or below, due to which the display becomes smaller.
You also need to be alert when a third-party manufacturer or operator logo appears on the display when you turn on the phone. Often, Chinese copies have a different arrangement of buttons, cameras, speakers, and other elements. You should also carefully consider the brand name - for non-original devices, the inscriptions may be crooked and contain errors, for example, Sansung, Aplee, Xioami, and so on.
Service Tag Check
Service codes make it easy to check the authenticity of smartphones from the South Korean manufacturer - Samsung. These devices are counterfeited very often, because the company occupies a leading position in sales in the world.
To check the device, just dial a combination of numbers: * # 7353 #. If the smartphone enters the component testing menu, then you are holding the original device in your hands. If the phone did not react in any way, it is most likely a fake.
Subtleties in the software
Many companies equip smartphones with proprietary firmware. For example, Xiaomi gadgets run on MIUI, Meizu runs on Flyme, and Samsung is equipped with TouchWiz. If, when buying a Xiaomi device, instead of MIUI, another interface is preinstalled or it is not there at all, it is worth considering. The software of the original smartphone usually works smoothly and stably, while Chinese counterparts can slow down and show ads.
Another important point, at the sight of which it is worth considering, is the translation of the interface. Usually, manufacturers are sensitive to such trifles, and the creators of fakes pay little attention to this, which is why the phrases are clumsy. For example, the phrase "To unlock, swipe the screen" can be translated as "Swipe the screen to unlock." Typical automatic translation in the style of AliExpress.
To make sure that the smartphone is original, you need to go to the settings and carefully examine the information about the software of the gadget. If necessary, it can be compared with the data that should be on the original device.
Price
The price of the phone is also one of the important indicators of authenticity. You should be wary if a gadget worth 700-800 dollars is offered to be purchased for 200-300 dollars. Before buying, you need to check the price of the device in official stores and ask the seller all your questions.
The iPhone is locked to a European carrier. I would like to know information about the phone by IMEI code.
Hello Andrei
Where to get IMEI
You can see this code:
1. In the Phone application, after dialing the combination: *#06#
2. In the settings along the way: Settings - General - About device - IMEI.
3. On the back of the iPhone box.
4. On the back cover of the iPhone (for some models, IMEI is printed on the SIM card tray).
Of course, all codes must match, if a mismatch is found - a reason to think about the origin of the smartphone.
What to do with IMEI
On the Apple website, you can check the service eligibility of this model. See if the smartphone is covered by the warranty.
Detailed information on IMEI can be obtained on various sites and services, for example:
By entering the IMEI code, you can find out the device model, color and sometimes the amount of internal memory. The services will show if the device is listed as stolen/lost. Some sites may provide a serial number and warranty expiration date.
To get data about the operator to which the iPhone is locked, you need to know the model number ( Settings - General - About device - Model). You can check it on the indicated resources.
IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a control identifier of mobile equipment assigned to each device by a special certified service (BABT - a British telecommunications organization) with direct authorization in the network. And although IMEI was originally used exclusively when accessing mobile telecommunications, the identifier's powers have changed a lot.
First of all, IMEI is used when authenticating smartphones and tablets (of different brands, including Apple). If you can’t visually distinguish a copy from the original, and you need to know everything about the device you are purchasing - from the warranty to blocked services - then you can safely arm yourself with an identifier and check the originality on the official website.
IMEI is marked, as a rule, in different places - on the packaging, in the sales receipt, in the settings, sometimes in the warranty and is shown when the * # 06 # command is entered on the keyboard (it always works on the operating system). And yet sometimes questions arise during the search. How to check the iPhone for authenticity by IMEI on the Apple website?
7 Sure Ways to Find IMEI iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch
View in settings
Statistics and information about your Apple smartphone, tablet, or music player is stored in the "About this device" section.
There it is easy to find out how much free space is left on the internal memory, what version of the operating system is installed, and what serial numbers, and other numerical parameters, such as ICCID and SEID, are assigned to the device. In case of urgent need, it is immediately easy to deal with legal documents and license agreements.
The section is interesting, and even always at hand - it is worth repeating a short algorithm of actions.
Find out IMEI through the command
View IMEI on iPhone box
It’s worth dealing with IMEI even before buying Apple equipment, if a smartphone or tablet is purchased not in a certified store, where each device has received a “certificate from RosTest” without fail, but in a third-party institution where the devices were delivered from the USA or Europe.
The IMEI code found on the still packed box will allow you to find out a lot of information - for example, whether the factory warranty is available, whether the device turned on, whether the recovery process went through and whether the SIM tray was unlocked for any operators or assigned to some mobile provider.
If for some reason the information received does not suit or disagrees with the seller's offer, then you can safely refuse the transaction!
Mobile ID on the back of the box at the bottom, there is also a barcode and serial number information attached.
After opening the iPhone, the numbers should be compared - in case of any discrepancies, you should contact the seller.
View IMEI via iTunes
- The Apple media player is able to tell everything in no time about the device connected to it with the letter "i" in the name. And the mobile ID is no exception.
- You just have to launch iTunes, click on the shortcut marked in the screenshot and select "Browse" from the menu that appears.
- The final touch is to click on the “Phone Number” parameter - after a few clicks, the line will change to IMEI information, where all the numbers necessary for verification will appear.
Check IMEI in iTunes without Phone
- If in the case described above, the Apple media player is suitable when using almost any device, then in this case you can find out the IMEI only of those smartphones and tablets whose backup copies were saved on the computer. This option is ideal in situations where IMEI is urgently needed, and there is no box or device at hand.
- You will have to act like this - open iTunes and select "Edit". Select "Settings" from the drop-down menu that appears.
- Then it remains to find the section with "Devices" and hover over any backup.
- In a few seconds, the entire statistical set will appear on the screen - both IMEI and phone number, and various serial numbers. The option, in fact, is a win-win, but narrowly focused - not everyone, in principle, uses iTunes in everyday life, and even more so create backup copies (and why? Access to music is always open through Apple Music, and everything important and useful is transferred in no time in iCloud).
View IMEI on the case of a smartphone, tablet or player
As in the case of the box, all important information about the device is stored not on the front, but on the back side, at the very bottom, where serial numbers and identifiers are listed.
This method does not work with all devices - but only starting with models of the 5 series, and on the rise. Most likely, the tradition will continue for many years to come.
View IMEI on the SIM card tray
The latter method is relevant for all Apple technology, but, unfortunately, does not lie on the surface. You can get the tray only using the "iceclip", and even the cover will have to be removed. But, if the other options did not fit, why refuse? 
Verification through the official Apple website
If the IMEI code is found, then it's time to proceed to a direct check of the purchased or not yet purchased device for originality and other parameters that facilitate further interaction with the service center, and for full information support from Apple. How to check iPhone by IMEI? Two ways:
Through the official website
- The most valid option is that it is much easier to trust the data provided by the original party. And if you have any questions, you can contact the same address. However, not all important information appears - some statistics are displayed only on third-party resources, however, first things first.
- The first step is to enter the IMEI code in the text field that appears, and then fill in the numeric or alphabetic combination shown in the picture (the so-called robot test, without which they will not be allowed to access the sacred data, even if you really ask).
- If the fields are filled in correctly, then all the necessary information will immediately appear on the screen. Namely, whether the purchase is valid, whether technical support is available, whether the free repair function is open. All listed services are marked with the end date of the notorious support. Therefore, if even the slightest “roughness” occurs, it is worth immediately (while there is still time) to contact the service - then you will have to pay for everything. And Apple's price tag is really serious.
- Should we consider the statistics obtained from the official site as complete? In no case. There are enough services on the network that offer more detailed data, and even open your eyes to some additional parameters.
Verification through a third party service
How to find out Apple ID by IMEI?
Apple ID is an official "identity" identifier that provides access to Apple entertainment content, as well as to specialized services and support departments (iTunes Store, App Store, iCloud - these services never work with those who have not registered an Apple ID and have not passed authorization). In fact, Apple ID is a real passport that opens any doors, provides security and at the same time keeps a lot of secrets.
The level of Apple ID capabilities, at least in the “apple” space, is much higher than the same IMEI, and therefore you should not count on access to confidential information through a mobile identifier (especially for free). The manufacturer keeps all important information behind seven seals and is trusted only by users who directly own the device.
Even through the official website, through the menu for recovering passwords and a personal account, no one will tell who previously owned the device along with IMEI, because the "passport" has long been withdrawn. The only way to find out the Apple ID is to try to contact the support service and persuade the technical support to reveal the cards. Most likely, nothing will come of such an undertaking. The Apple ID is either registered and pinned on the network, or belongs to someone else - along with a security question, important settings and confidential data (and recently two-factor authorization has also appeared - it's still scarier there!).
How to check if the "Find iPhone" function by IMEI is enabled?
As in the case of Apple ID, the “find iPhone, iPad or iPod” function check works without any connection with IMEI - users will have to go through authorization anyway, but not on the official website, but in the iCloud.com service. It is there that the developers offer to check the current location of any of the devices attached to the Apple ID. If the information is not received, or for some reason the search does not work, then the Find My iPhone function is not activated in the settings.
Previously, third-party resources also offered an additional check of the “Find iPhone” function by IMEI, and it was completely free. The identifier also displayed other information, such as the status of "stolen and blocked" and even offered to contact support directly.
Recently, such services have stopped displaying such valuable information to the public. From now on, only data related to the warranty, access to technical support and other information is available, such as where the iPhone, iPad and iPod were supposed to be sold, or under which operators the device is blocked.
How to find out the manufacturer's country by IMEI
When buying smartphones, tablets and players not in certified stores, you can stumble upon devices brought from different places - the USA, Europe, some Asian countries, and intended for sale in local stores, and not in Russia. As a rule, few people are interested in information about where Apple technology came from (what difference does it make from the USA whether it is a smartphone or from China, when the savings are in the face? Domestic retail offers exorbitant prices after paying VAT and RosTest services!), but sometimes deal with the place " birth” of technology is still worth it. And there are two reasons for that.
Firstly, sometimes the package bundle changes a lot (no, the classic Apple stickers are always in place) - we are talking primarily about chargers. If European analogues work with domestic Euro sockets, then chargers from the same Britain or the USA can be safely left until better times - for example, before a tourist trip in the indicated direction. Sometimes the instructions are available in certain languages.
Secondly, the manufacturer often blocks the ability to use different cellular operators in advance (you can check by IMEI using the methods listed above). Accordingly, inserting a SIM card of a classic Megafon or Beeline will not work even with a strong desire (even the option using special repair services can be safely dismissed - blocking not only at the hardware, but also at the software level).
And, since there are all chances to stumble upon something wrong, then it's time to get checked with a third-party service.
The instructions have already described a third-party service from the official one, which allows you to find out whether the iPhone has passed a technical rehabilitation course or whether the device is sold directly from the factory, in its original condition. But just in case, again:
- Go to a third party service.
- Enter the IMEI number on the main page. Confirm "humanity", wait for the procedure to complete.
- In the statistics that appear, find the item “Refurbished by Apple” (whether technical support was provided, whether parts were replaced). If it is “No”, then you can safely take it - everything is original, without any jambs.
- If “Yes”, and the user counted on “No”, then the seller is cunning and hides important information about the device.
The iPhone is getting more expensive every year and therefore, before buying a new or used smartphone, you want to make sure that it is genuine and you can use it without any problems.
To do this, there is the possibility of checking by serial number, moreover, on the official Apple website. Let's talk about everything in order.
How to find out the serial number / name of the iPhone?
If you want to check your iPhone for originality, then you first have to find out its IMEI. Ways there is just a sea.
There are options when the device is active, as well as those when you cannot turn it on, but somehow you need to find out the serial number.
Now I will tell about each of them, and you already choose the most convenient for you:
- Through Settings. In absolutely any iPhone, you can find the IMEI in Settings. For this, you need to go to Settings — Main — About this device — Serial number.
Settings - General - About this device - Serial number
- SIM card tray. If you own iPhone models from 6S to Xs Max, then you can easily find the serial number on the SIM card tray.
So you don't have to remember if your iPhone is in the range, here is a list of all devices: iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone X, iPhone Xr, iPhone Xs, iPhone Xs Max. - Rear panel of the device. There was a time when you could find the right number on the back of your gadget.
This applies to iPhone 5, iPhone 5c, iPhone 5s, iPhone SE, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus. - SIM card tray again. Older models of the iPhone 3g, iPhone 3gs, iPhone 4 and iPhone 4s had the serial number on the SIM card tray but on the top.
- On the box. If it is not possible to use the options written above, then there is always an option with a device box.
Just turn the package over and you can find a sticker with a lot of barcodes. There you will find the information you need.
- iTunes. So far, no one has canceled the option with the iTunes program either, and it is also quite easy to find the desired iMEI in it.
Select the connected device Review and on the right side you will find the number you need.
As you can see, there are a lot of ways to find out IMEI and you just have to choose the most convenient for you.
Checking iPhone for originality / authenticity by serial number on the official Apple website
When you already know the serial number, it's time to move on to the most basic thing - checking the iPhone on the official website.
It is very easy to do this, because there is a special section -
Posted Sat, 06/22/2013 - 11:22
If the phone is stolen, the owner makes an official statement about the loss and blacklists the phone's imei.
In developed countries: in Europe and America, a stolen phone, even if the SIM card is changed, will not work in any network of these countries.
In Russia, due to an imperfect system of prosecution and punishment, it is problematic to return a phone found on the network via imei. More on this next...
What is IMI?
IMEI - International Mobile Equipment Identity- International Mobile Equipment Identifier - a 15-digit decimal number that is unique for each mobile device.
All cell phones of GSM, WCDMA and IDEN networks have imei.
IMEI is assigned to the device at the factory, during its manufacture and is stored in the firmware of the device. IMEI is broadcast during authorization in the network and serves to identify the device in the cellular network.
IMEI is used to find stolen phones.
How to find, find out the IMEI of the phone?
The phone's IMEI can be viewed in four places:
- - in the machine's memory. Display imei on the screen, you can dial the command *#06# on the phone keypad.
- - under the battery, on a plate along with the serial number.
- - on the packaging, on a sticker or printout with a serial number.
- - in the warranty card.
The IMEI is located in the phone's flash memory, on the phone's packaging box, under the barcode, on the phone case, and under the battery.
How to find imei in cellular settings in Android OS and iOC.
Another easy way to find out the IMEI of an Android smartphone is to look at it in the operating system settings. You can do this in the following way: "Settings" - "About phone" - "Status" or "Status". A list of system settings will open, at the bottom of the list is the IMEI of the mobile device.
Similarly, for the iPhone and iPad, the device's code can be viewed in the iOC settings. It is located along the following path: "Settings" - "General" - "About this device".
How to determine IMEI, ICCID and MEID on Apple iPhone 4, 4S, 5, 5S, 5C, 6, 6 plus, 7, 8, X and iPad
In order to determine IMEI, ICCID and MEID, you must do the following:
In the mobile device menu, open the "About device" tab, in the following way: on the "Home" screen, press Settings > General > About device and scroll down.
You can view this information in iTunes, on the back of iPad, and on the iPhone packaging.
Check IMEI database.
Our site site has a database of stolen or lost phones. Here you can enter the phone's IMEI in the database or save the IMEI of your mobile device with the necessary data: full name, comment, contact method.
Punch IMEI:
Enter IMEI
For example: 123456789012345
Why should I check the iPhone by IMEI at the time of purchase?
When buying an Apple mobile device abroad or hand-held on Avito, you need to check whether it is intended for use with any SIM cards (simfree) or only with a specific carrier: Sprint, AT&T, etc. In the column, the lock status should be "Unlocked" / Unlocked .
It is also worth checking if it has not been used before. Look in the "Activation Status" column, if the iPhone is packed and when checked it says "Activated", then this is not the original packaging - it has already been opened. Next, you should check the match of the IMEI code in the phone's memory, on the back side and on the package. And you should pay attention to whether the color and amount of memory corresponds to this device, in this configuration.
When buying a telephone, you need to compare all these four digits. In case of discrepancy, it is not recommended to buy such a phone.
How to return a lost phone by imei?
How to find a phone by imei? The IMEI number of a mobile phone is similar to the engine number of a car, and the phone transmits it each time it registers with the base station. It follows that when entering the mobile network, the stolen phone, if desired, can be calculated and found.
If the phone is stolen in Europe or the USA, according to the owner, the emei of the stolen phone is blacklisted and then the phone is searched for by imei. The base of stolen emei is located at all telecom operators and in case of an attempt to connect to the cellular network, a signal is immediately sent to the appropriate service for the subsequent transmission of the time and place of access to the network to the police.
It is not possible to call from such a phone, the telecom operator imposes a ban on making calls, calls are allowed only to 112 or 911 services.
The volume of cell phone thefts in foreign countries is low. the stolen phone will not be able to go online and becomes a useless piece of plastic with electronic filling.
In countries where operators maintain blacklists, stolen phones are most often used for spare parts, or for IMEI reprogramming.
Can IMEI be changed? Yes, but not on all devices. On outdated models and on cheap phones of Asian-Chinese origin, they have already found ways to change IMEI; on new models of devices, replacing IMEI is not always possible.
This situation can be compared to an arms race. Manufacturers come up with new ways to protect imei firmware, criminals are constantly looking for ways to bypass protection.
In addition, for the deliberate change of IMEI, in some countries, they may be prosecuted. This action is qualified as unauthorized access to legally protected computer information and is punishable by criminal prosecution.
For example, in Kazakhstan there is such an article, according to which imei flashing can be up to three years in prison. In other countries, maximum sentences can reach 5-8 years in prison. In Russia, actions to change IMEI are qualified under Articles 272 and 273 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation. In judicial practice, there were facts of issuing indictments with the imposition of a sentence in the form of three years of suspended imprisonment.
How to protect yourself when buying a phone?
How to proceed when buying a phone? When buying a stolen phone, its location can be calculated by the stolen imei or by the fact that the imei on a particular device has changed, this should be remembered.
In order not to run into a stolen phone, you must follow the following rules. You need to buy a phone only in a complete set: phone, native charger, instructions with a warranty card, packaging.
Before paying, you need to check the IMEI on the box, on the sticker under the battery, in the warranty card, with the IMEI displayed on the phone screen. In order to display IMEI on the phone screen, you must enter the code * # 06 #.
When buying a phone, you should be suspicious: if the imei number under the battery is erased or this sticker is missing, or there are signs that it was re-glued.
If the scammers used a serial number sticker from another mobile device, then this can be calculated. For example, on the site sndeep.info, you can calculate the name and model of a cell phone by serial number and imei. Links to such services are provided below.
Show more
How to check the punch of a used iPhone when buying from hand
1. Check the functionality of the telephone set in the presence of the seller. Treat any information coming from the seller with distrust.
2. iPhone IMEI from the device memory, on the box and in the product passport must match. You can find out the EMEI Athos and the serial number from memory using the following path: "Settings" - "General" - "About this device", the numbers are highlighted in red.
3. We take out the SIM card carriage with a paper clip and check the serial number and imei on the carriage. The numbers must match with item 2.
4. If the serial number starts with 5K, then this is a refurbished device. That is, it is assembled at the factory from used parts and given for resale. These phones are less reliable than brand new ones.
5. We go to the site iphoneimei.info or www.chipmunk.nl/klantenservice/applemodel.html, enter the serial number and get the exact characteristics of the smartphone. If they differ from those declared by the seller, then he is deceiving you.
6. We check the telecom operator on the smartphone along the following path: "Basic" - "About this device" item "Operator". If Carrier is installed, then the phone is tied to a foreign telecom operator, there is a geveik on the device (there is a hard unlock, which is not always stable). If MTS, Beeline and other Russian operators are in the "Operator" column, then everything is in order, there is no binding and unlocking.
Assessment of the appearance and characteristics of a used iPhone when buying
1. We examine the visible damage on the case.
2. Geolocation: "Settings" - "Privacy" turn on geolocation, check the compass.
3. Testing the unlock button (button power), Home, volume, vibro switching.
4. We check the camera and take a couple of pictures. We look at the speed and quality of the received photos.
5. The unlock slider should move smoothly, without jerking.
6. Turn on the battery charge percentage indicator: “Settings” - “General” - “Statistics” - “Charge in percent”. We remember the readings as a percentage and control the charge drop. The norm is the discharge of the device in 5 minutes, approximately 1%.
7. Check the brightness of the screen: "Settings" - "Brightness and Wallpaper", the slider to the maximum.
8. Check the touch screen. Open the virtual keyboard and press each button in landscape and portrait mode.
9. We call a friend from an iPhone and check the microphone and speaker, including testing in speakerphone mode.
10. Turn on Wi-Fi, try to connect to access points. We check Bluetooth in the same way.
11. Do a cold reboot: hold down the power key and the Home button. When rebooting, check for dead pixels on a black screen.
12. Turn off / on: hold down the unlock key, on the screen press turn off the phone. Important: the phone should not reboot from this action, it should turn off.
13. Connect the power to the iPhone and check if it is charging.
14. We connect to the laptop and see if it connects to iTunes.
15. If you need to jailbreak in the future, check the firmware version and modem version.
How to find a stolen phone by imei?
- In order to find a stolen phone, you need to contact the Police. In the application, you should write the emei of the stolen device, as well as make copies of documents confirming your right to own the cell phone indicated in the application. Theoretically, it is possible to find a stolen phone, the police must make an official request to the cellular communication companies located on the territory of the Russian Federation, which must determine whether this phone with the specified emei is currently in the operator's network. If yes, then the phone was found and the operator reports the data on the new owner to the police. The police, knowing the location of the phone, finds it and returns it to the owner. It seems that everything should be solved simply: I reported the IMEI code of the phone “where necessary” - they took measures - they figured out the offender - they returned the phone. But, for a number of reasons, this scheme does not always work.
- The legislative base in our country is built in such a way that it will take a lot of time until the operator receives a request from the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the request can be worked out for a month. The mobile operator, even having a request from the Ministry of Internal Affairs, will not disconnect the phone from its network until evidence is provided that the phone has been stolen. For most phone models, the IMEI code can be reflashed and replaced with a new one. After changing the IMEI in the phone, the probability of finding it is actually reduced to zero.
- In this situation, it is not economically profitable for the operator to disconnect subscribers according to the black list of stolen phones. Competition between mobile operators requires you to attract customers to your network, and not turn them off. There is information that there are a large number of handsets with the same IMEI code, which are successfully served by operator networks. If the EMEI blacklist law is passed, cellular operators will lose many of the customers currently served on their networks.
- Manufacturers and sellers of smartphones are also not losing out. after the phone is stolen, a person goes to the store for a new handset, which, if not for the theft, he might not have bought. This increases the profit of all participants in the mobile communications market. It turns out that it is not even profitable for manufacturers to develop technical solutions aimed at countering theft. Therefore, the will of the state authorities should manifest itself here, which can pass laws that force operators and manufacturers to take measures to counter the theft of phones.
Approximate procedure for loss - theft of a cell phone.
Contact your mobile operator.
Immediately after losing your smartphone, you should call the operator in order to: 1. Block the SIM card so as not to lose the money on the balance of the phone number. 2. Try to find out the current location of the phone if the phone is turned on and the SIM card is online.Contacting the police.
If the phone is lost or stolen, you will need to write a statement. In order for it to be accepted without problems, you must have with you and present to the police officer:
1. Passport of a citizen.
2. Original packaging with IMEI number or phone passport with IMEI insert. Just say the number will not work, it is verified when filling out the application.
3. A receipt confirming that you own the phone.
It is recommended to write in the application "loss", not "theft". So you protect yourself from unnecessary red tape. You do not have to write additions to the application to explain the events that occurred prior to the offense. And to prove that this is “theft”, and not “loss”.
Search through the "Android Remote Control" service.
If a mobile phone based on the Android OS is lost, you can try to find it using the Android Remote Control service built into the system. This service allows you to lock your smartphone, remotely clear its memory, erase account data, reset to factory settings or determine its location.
To do this, you need to know the login (Email) and password from the Google account associated with the phone.
Under these data, you need to go to the "Personal Account" Google on the page www.google.com At the very bottom of the page, open the "Android" tab. Here you can see the name of your phone, carrier, account activation date, date and time when the device last went online.
Click the button "Active device management" if the mobile phone is turned on and online, a map of the location of the device will appear with an accuracy of up to 30 meters.
Here the buttons "Call" and "Block" will be available.
Button "Call" allows you to turn on the sound of the call, even if the smartphone is set to vibrate or in silent mode. This feature is useful for those who just lost their phone at home or on the street.
Previously, as a precaution, it makes sense to block the lost device. To do this, click the button "Block". In order for no one else to be able to unlock the phone, set a password to unlock the screen. And write a message on the lock screen for the finder of the phone. For example, "Please contact the owner of the found phone at xxxxxxxxxx.".
It is very important for you not to lose the new password from the locked device, because if you lose the password to unlock the screen, it will not be possible to recover it.
If the phone could not be found, then you can use the function of clearing the main and flash memory of the mobile device, and resetting the settings to factory settings. To do this, click the "Clear" button. After cleaning and remotely reinstalling the Android system, it will not be possible to determine the location of the lost device.
Search for iPhone, iPad through "iCloud".
Apple has a similar service for finding and remotely managing a lost mobile device, and this service is provided free of charge.
Both in the case of Android and iOS, this function must be enabled in advance in the settings of the mobile device. You can do this in the iCloud section, function: "Find my iPhone".
In order to determine the location of the iPhone, iPad, go to the official website iCloud and sign in to your account.
If the iPhone, iPad is turned on and is on the Internet, then you will see its locations on the map.
But if a smartphone or tablet is stolen, then with a high probability, the thief has already turned off the device and reinstalled the system, resetting all settings, your logins and passwords. Thus blocking the ability to identify a smartphone through iCloud or Google maps.
In this case, it is possible to break through the location of the stolen phone only by IMEI through relatives and friends in telephone companies: MTS, Beeline, Tele2, Megafon and others. Or make a complaint about the theft to the police and pay them to get the case going, because no one wants to do anything for free.
Lost-Android - manage your lost smartphone via the Internet.
In addition to searching with regular Android or iOS tools, you can use other software. For example, you can download and install the well-known Lost-Android program, which allows you to remotely control your phone.
What Lost-Android can do remotely over the Internet:
Turn on, turn off the sound, vibration, display, GPS module;
Determining the location of the device on the map;
The ability to block the phone via the Internet;
Sending pop-up messages asking for the return of the device;
Copying and viewing files of photos, messages, contacts;
Automatic notification of the owner by Email in case of a SIM card change.
Lost Android- the official application, it is in the Google Play Market. After installing the program, for the purpose of conspiracy, you will have a new application called Personal Notes with administrator rights to the device. In its settings, a Google account is entered, through which it will be possible to control a cell phone from a distance.
Find My Lost Phone - search and block Samsung phones by imei.
Modern Samsung smartphones have a built-in Find My Lost Phone Samsung service. In order to use this service, you must first set up the software and create a Samsung account, check (enable) the “Remote control” option.
If a Samsung smartphone is lost or stolen, the owner goes to findmymobile.samsung.com and can:
Determine the location of your Samsung smartphone on the map;
Lock screen;
Turn on the loudest sound of the melody, to search by ear;
Removed to view call logs and outgoing calls;
Erase all contents of the device and restore factory default settings;
If you forgot your PIN code, reset it and unlock the screen;
Enable SIM card change notification on a lost device.
Disadvantages of Find My Lost Phone Samsung:
In order to remotely use the Find My Lost Phone Samsung service, the phone must be turned on and online.
The device must be signed in to a Samsung account. If your Samsung phone is running Android 4.3 Jelly Bean or lower, it is enough to have an activated Google account when using the service.
Why is it almost impossible to find a stolen phone by IMEI.
Why is there a problem of finding a missing phone by IMEI.
1. The unwillingness of the telecom operator to search for a phone by IMEI in its network at the request of the police or citizens. Everything is done formally, the search time is delayed, until the moment when all the deadlines stipulated by law come out.
2. The software that transmits the coordinates of the smartphone and transfers remote control to the owner is easily erased and removed by resetting the phone to factory settings, formatting the memory or flashing the device.
In order to effectively combat the theft of mobile devices, the consumer of communication services should be able to independently find a smartphone by IMEI in the operator's network.
In any state of the firmware, the phone must always have special software that allows it to be found under any circumstances.
But at the moment there is no such functionality, so we have the problems that we have.
For the reasons above, the question is: "How to find a phone by imei?", can answer: "Phones are returned to their rightful owners in isolated cases."
Is it possible to check by IMEI before buying a phone, and is it a stolen phone?
It is possible, but in our country there is no officially database of stolen IMEI - stolen devices. There are sites that provide IMEI verification services, but their databases are far from complete and are not linked to the databases of the competent authorities.
The addresses of sites hosting the "Find a phone by imei" service are given below. This is the only possible way in our country to look up the imei database of stolen phones.
Attention. On the Internet, you can find the offer "download the phone program by imei", but you cannot trust such programs, because. they contain malicious code. By installing such a program with a database of stolen imai on a PC, you can lose computer data or passwords, logins from your accounts on the network.
How to find a phone by IMEI via satellite?
Perhaps sometime in the future, a lost phone can be found via satellite, such as Elon Musk's Starlink system. But at the moment this is not possible.
If you are offered to find a stolen phone via IMEI satellite or download a special program for money, do not agree. There are many scammers on the Internet who use the gullibility of inexperienced users, take money and deceive them.
It is important to know that information about the IMEI code of the phone is transmitted through the terrestrial network of the mobile operator and nothing else.
Determine the phone by imei, punch through the imai database.
Identify phone by imei
Good quality service, by imei or by serial number can determine the phone model. For the test, I entered my IMEI and received the following data: TAC, Device serial number, Check digit.
The capabilities of the service allow you to add a smartphone to the list: Stolen or Lost phones.
Check phone by imei. The imei database of stolen, lost phones.
imei database of stolen/lost phones
Neat and easy to use imei service, with a database of stolen or lost phones. Allows if your phone is found, to get the data of the real owner.
When buying a phone "from hand" a person will be able to find out the history of the phone, and perhaps even tell the owner where he saw his phone.
Finding a stolen phone, how to find a phone by imei.
Finding a stolen phone, how to find a phone by imei
A popular site, has a large database of stolen imei - more than 65,000. When entering my imei number of my phone, it correctly identified the manufacturer and model. The service after entering the IMEI of the phone shows the following data: Full IMEI presentation, Manufacturer, model (phone model), Type Allocation Holder, Mobile Equipment Type, Reporting Body Identifier, Type Allocation Code, Type Approval Code - phone model code, Final Assembly Code - code manufacturer, Serial Number - serial number, Check Digit - checksum, Note.
LoSToleN is an international service for finding missing phones.
LoSToleN- a large database of stolen phones from all over the world. This is the most popular site on this subject. On LoSToleN, you can post information about a lost or stolen smartphone. The mobile device is searched for by IMEI. When buying a used phone, be sure to look at this Internet resource and punch the mobile phone by IMEI, it may be listed as missing.
Imei.info determine the model and characteristics of the smartphone by IMEI.
Smartphone search by imei on LoSToleN.
imei.info- one of the best sites for the possibility of determining the manufacturer of the model of a mobile device and its characteristics. The site has the most up-to-date database of EMEI codes and accurately finds even the newest and latest models of smartphones from any manufacturer, including those from China.
It is recommended to use this service when buying a used phone. Perhaps the device you are buying is reflashed or re-glued IMEI on the back cover and packaging of the mobile device. By entering this name, it is easy to find out which model and manufacturer it belongs to, as well as whether the hardware characteristics correspond to those declared by the seller.
Check iPhone lock status by imei.
Show moreAlternative options for finding a stolen phone
Creation of a business card about the owner.
The phone does not always disappear due to theft, perhaps the person who discovered the missing thing will want to return it to its rightful owner. In this case, you need to help him as much as possible in this. Namely, in the phone you should create a business card with the owner's data: First name, Last name, additional phone number, Email. A business card can be placed on the lock screen (Settings - Lock Screen - Owner Information) or in the Contacts section, under the first number - 000 Phone Owner.
Some phone models can, when changing a SIM card, send an SMS message to a programmed number. If your smartphone supports this feature, please enable it.
There are sites on the Internet where you can leave information about the missing phone. The most popular of them is LoSToleN. The link to which is posted above.
Call your number.
This advice is obviously the simplest, but it should not be ignored: call your phone.
If the phone is in silent mode
If the phone is lost in the house or in the country and it is in silent mode, then you need to remember whether the alarm clock is activated on it. If the alarm is set, it will work even when the phone is turned off, as well as in silent mode or in airplane mode. When the alarm goes off, the phone can be heard and located.
If Bluetooth is enabled on the phone.
If the mobile phone is turned on, working and Bluetooth is activated on it, then it can be found by scanning the air. You can do this from another mobile device by installing one of the free programs on it. Under the Android OS, these will be the following programs: .
Punch IMEI through a search engine.
Do not ignore this method of searching for MU. Perhaps someone found your mobile phone and published its IMEI on one of the sites of missing and found phones. Just drive the IMEI of your lost smartphone into Yandex or Google and press Inter.
View ads for sale.
If the phone was stolen, then it may have already been put up for sale. This option is also worth checking out. In order to sell this or that thing faster, people advertise on the Avito.ru website. Or to another site more famous in your city. It is worth looking at the latest ads for the sale of your phone model on the Internet site. You may be lucky and the phone will be found in this way.
Similarly, you can place an ad on the site about a lost or stolen smartphone. Social media advertising is especially effective. If the device is found by a conscientious person, he will be able to return it for free or for a small fee.
How to decrypt IMEI code. Code structure.
The IMEI code assignment algorithm changed in 2004. Until this year, mobile devices had a 14-digit code. After 2004, IMEI code consists of 15 characters.
To date, IMEI has the following structure:
"AA-BBBBBB-CC-D", where: "AA" and "BBBBBB" are TAC codes. The TAC code encodes the manufacturer and model of the telephone.
"SS" is a unique serial number.
"D" is a check digit to check the entire string.
How to determine the country of the phone manufacturer?
Knowing the unique smartphone number, you can determine the country of the phone manufacturer and, accordingly, the quality of the device. Phone manufacturers try not to disclose country codes. But it can still be calculated.
Below is information about the codes found on the Internet from various sources. In this regard, the data may be erroneous and inconsistent. They can only be used as reference information.
To determine the manufacturer's country by IMEI, do the following:
We dial * # 06 # on the phone. A code appears - IMEI.
- we write off the 15-digit IMEI of the phone of the form XXXXXX-XX-XXXXXXX-X.
- we determine the seventh and eighth digits of the IMEI code - this is the so-called FAC (Final Assembly Code).
- by these two figures we determine the country of origin from the list of countries.
01 or 10 or 70- Finland - good quality phones.
02 or 20- United Arab Emirates - poor quality phones.
07 or 08 or 78- Germany - good quality phones.
13 - Azerbaijan - good quality phones.
03 or 80- China
30 - Korea
67 - USA
19 or 40- Great Britain
60 - Singapore
04 - Hungary
00 - means that your phone is outdated and was produced when there was no FAC decryption.
