If you’ve never heard of IMEI, you’re not alone. But nearly every mobile device on the market today comes equipped with one, and for good reason. It plays an important role in keeping you and your device safely and seamlessly connected on the go. Let’s take a closer look at what an IMEI number is, what IMEI is used for, and how to find your IMEI number on your device.
What is an IMEI number?
IMEI stands for International Mobile Equipment Identity. This number is a 15-digit identification number unique to your device that can be used to identify and track it for a number of purposes. 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.
What is an IMEI number used for?
The IMEI number on your phone and other mobile devices actually provides a lot of important and useful information. An IMEI number may be used for the following reasons:
- Technical support: For starters, the IMEI number can be used by your carrier to provide technical support. Ever had an issue with your phone, tablet, or laptop and been asked to identify not just the brand but model? Very few of us can remember exactly what year we got each of our devices. The IMEI number identifies your device and its specifications, such as the model, manufacturer, and software version. This information can be a lifesaver when you need technical support and troubleshooting and you’re not able to take it in for repairs in person.
- Lost/stolen device tracking: If your device is lost or stolen, the IMEI number becomes an important tool for preventing thieves from continuing to use it on your network and can, in some cases, even help recover it. Law enforcement has used IMEI numbers to track a device to within a few feet.
When a device is lost or stolen, you should report it immediately to the police or service providers. Since some carriers require proof of theft to block devices, documentation from a police report helps provide that information. From there, your carrier can then use the IMEI number to disable it and, in some cases, block access to the personal information you’ve saved. Let’s take a closer look at how that works.
IMEI and device tracking
Your IMEI isn’t just a static identifier, it plays a big role in mobile security, especially when a device is lost or stolen.
Cellular carriers can use the IMEI number to help locate or restrict a device. While the IMEI itself doesn’t show real-time GPS location data, network-based tracking allows service providers to pinpoint a device’s approximate location based on which towers it last connected to, which can be invaluable when working with law enforcement.
Because the IMEI number is unique to your device and can’t be changed easily (even if someone swaps out the SIM card), it becomes a powerful tool in the fight against mobile theft and unauthorized use.
IMEI and device security
Beyond tracking, IMEI numbers are an important line of defense when it comes to mobile device security. When a phone is reported lost or stolen, mobile carriers can use the IMEI number to “blacklist” the device. This makes the phone unusable on most major networks, even if someone tries to install a new SIM card.
Blacklisting protects you by making it significantly harder for thieves to profit off your stolen phone. Carriers keep their own blacklists, and in many cases, these connect to international databases like the GSMA device registry, helping prevent stolen phones from being reactivated or resold in other countries.
In addition to blacklisting, the IMEI also plays a role in unlocking and locking devices, like when you request an IMEI unlock when switching carriers. This process ensures only you have full control over the device, giving you another layer of protection.
How are IMEI numbers different from IMEI2, EID, and MEID?
You may have run across these terms, as well, but they’re not exactly the same thing as an IMEI number. Here’s the difference:
- IMEI2. Some dual-SIM devices have two IMEI numbers, one for each SIM card slot. IMEI2 simply indicates the identifier for that second SIM.
- EID. EID stands for Embedded Identity Document, and it’s kind of like the IMEI, but specifically for the eSIM in your phone. If your phone supports eSIM (which many newer phones do), it has a tiny chip built in that can connect to a mobile network without needing a physical SIM card. The EID is the unique number that identifies that eSIM chip.
- MEID. This stands for Mobile Equipment Identifier and, like IMEI, it was a unique identification number. But MEID was assigned to devices that utilized an older technology called CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access), which is now obsolete since any carriers that once used CDMA have now transitioned to using LTE and 5G.
How to find the IMEI number on your device: 5 options
There are five different ways to find the IMEI number on your device, depending on the brand, device type, and model.
1. Dial a Code
A simple way to find your IMEI number on a cell phone, regardless of the brand or model is to dial *#06# on your device's keypad. Once dialed, the IMEI number will be displayed automatically on the screen. NOTE: In addition to the IMEI number, you may also see IMEI2, EID and MEID.
2. Check the device settings
Depending on the type of mobile device you have, you can also check your IMEI number in the settings.
How to find IMEI number on an iPhone
- Select “Settings” icon on your display screen
- Scroll down and tap the section marked “General”
- Choose “About”
- Your IMEI will be listed along with information such as the model name, number, and serial number
How to find IMEI number on an Android phone
- Open the Settings app
- Select “About Phone”
- Scroll past information such as emergency contact and model number to your IMEI
Google “Find My Device” Feature
- Open Settings
- Tap Security and then Find My Device
- At the top left tap the phone icon
- Tap Information
- Your phone’s IMEI will appear to the right of the phone icon
3. Look at the physical device
If for some reason you’re unable to check your IMEI number in your phone’s settings, there are also a few places you can look on your physical device.
On an iPhone
- If your iPhone has a SIM card, you can eject the card to find the IMEI number on the SIM card tray. However, the IMEI number is only located on the SIM card tray for iPhone generations 4S – iPhone 13.
- For iPhone generations 5-6 (including the first-generation iPhone SE), the IMEI number is engraved on the back of the device. And for first generation iPhones, iPads, and iPod Touch, the IMEI number is also provided on the back of the device.
On an Android phone
- Many Android devices, including those made by Samsung, include the model, serial number, and IMEI number printed on the back of the device.
On devices with a battery pack
- On many of these devices, your IMEI, along with the serial number can often be found printed on a sticker attached to the battery.
4. Check the original packaging
If you kept the original box your device came in, you’ll find the IMEI number alongside other information, such as the model and serial number, printed on the label of the packaging.
5. Call Your Service Provider
In the event that your device is stolen, you won’t be able to check settings or the physical device for your IMEI number. Not to worry! Your service provider will have a record of your phone, complete with your IMEI number. Call customer service as soon as you realize your phone is missing to both get access to your IMEI number and find out the next steps for blocking access to your personal information and making sure you’re not billed for a stolen device.
IMEI: 3 security tips
A little preparation can go a long way when it comes to your device’s security. Here are three important IMEI tips:
- Write it down: As soon as you get a new phone or tablet, store the IMEI number in a secure place, just in case you need it later.
- Check before buying: If you’re buying a secondhand phone, always run the IMEI through a checker tool to make sure it’s not blacklisted.
- Use available tools: Carriers offer IMEI-based security services, including unlocking, blacklisting, and theft protection tools, so be sure to take advantage of those resources.
When will you need your IMEI number?
As we mentioned earlier, reporting a stolen device is just one reason you might need your phone’s IMEI number. That’s why it’s a good idea to write down your IMEI number, serial number, and other information as soon as you get a new device and keep it in a safe place.
In addition to theft or warranty repairs, you may need your IMEI to:
- Unlock your device from your current carrier
- Switch networks
- Get technical support
- Verify secondhand devices before buying
Your IMEI number might seem like just a string of digits, but it’s one of the most important security and tracking features built into your mobile device. Whether you’re trying to recover a lost phone or just planning ahead, knowing where to find your IMEI, and how it protects you, can give you peace of mind every time you pick up your device.
You might also be interested in:
- How to find the IMEI number on your device
- Check T-Mobile compatibility with your phone's IMEI
- What is eSIM?
- Turn On eSIM Protection
- GSM vs. CDMA: What You Need To Know About Phone Bands
Sources:
https://www.cnet.com/news/privacy/find-the-imei-number-for-a-lost-or-stolen-android-device
https://www.fcc.gov/protect-your-phone
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/what-imei2-understanding-your-phones-second-imei-number-hossain-pukhc
https://tiaonline.org/products-and-services/meid-database
https://support.apple.com/en-us/
https://support.google.com/store/
https://www.samsung.com/ph/support/mobile-devices/how-do-i-locate-my-phone-imei-number
https://www.androidpolice.com/what-happened-to-cdma-networks
