Whether someone can do something with your IMEI? (2024)

FAQs

Whether someone can do something with your IMEI? ›

If your phone is stolen, the person who stole it can use your IMEI number to track your phone's location. Block your phone from being used on a network. If you report your phone as stolen, your phone carrier can block your IMEI number from being used on their network.

Tracking a phone with only the IMEI number is possible, but typically, only the police can do it effectively by employing other tools and consulting databases.

The IMEI number reveals details about a phone without having to physically have it, including the brand and model, year of release, and other specifications. For this reason, your insurance company or new phone provider may want to know your IMEI number to create an insurance policy.

Devices that come equipped with IMEI numbers include smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices. These codes are used by carriers to identify a device on a mobile network, and they are often used by both carriers and law enforcement to block stolen or lost devices from accessing a network.

IMEI numbers can help you check for any issues with a used phone you're thinking of buying, like if it's been blacklisted from certain carriers. Think of these as background checks for your phone, but it's to check if a phone is stolen, not whether it has unpaid parking tickets. (We don't know anything about those.)

Someone can get access or track your live location using your device's IMEI number. Anyone can use your IMEI number and manipulate it to blacklist it from your phone. Hackers can also use your IMEI number to commit fraud or illegal activities and put the blame on you.

Call up your mobile network provider's customer service line. Inform them that your phone has been lost or stolen and provide them with the IMEI number. They can then proceed to block your phone, ensuring that the device cannot be used on any network with any SIM card.

It is also generally not recommended, as it can cause problems with the phone's network connectivity. To change the IMEI number of an Android phone, you will need to use a special software program. There are a number of different programs available, both free and paid.

IMEI: A Unique Identifier, Not a Tracking Device

It's a unique 15-digit code that identifies your specific device on mobile networks. This unique code plays a crucial role in various functions, but location tracking isn't one of them. The IMEI itself doesn't have built-in GPS or any other tracking technology.

To track IMEI number, you need to file a police report, contact your service provider for a duplicate SIM card, and visit the CEIR portal to block the IMEI with the necessary documents. Law enforcement and operators will then locate your mobile to help you “find my device with IMEI”.

Should I reveal my IMEI number? ›

You should not give it out to anyone unless you are sure that they are trustworthy. Somebody can do something with your IMEI number, here are some things they can do: Track your phone. If your phone is stolen, the person who stole it can use your IMEI number to track your phone's location.

Overall, while some risk exists, using IMEI.info once for device verification likely isn't a major issue. However, it's always wise to practice caution with personal information like your IMEI. Additional tips: Consider alternatives for phone validation like manufacturer's websites or carrier apps.

Unfortunately, you cannot use your IMEI number directly to find a lost or stolen iPhone, as well as other Apple products, as it is usually used only when reporting it stolen to the manufacturer or carrier in order to lock the device remotely.

Can a phone be tracked if it's turned off? A phone that is turned off is difficult to track because it stops sending signals to cell towers. However, the service provider or internet provider can show the last location once it's switched back on.

No, your IMEI number cannot be tracked through Wi-Fi alone.

Limitation of VPN Services: VPNs like NordVPN encrypt internet traffic and mask IP addresses. However, they do not have the capability to change or hide hardware identifiers like the IMEI, which are directly communicated between your device and your mobile network provider.