Mobile IMEI - what is an IMEI, whats it used for, how do hackers use your IMEI ID (Device ID)

How does the mobile network use an IMEA ID?
Do you need to store the IMEI number of your mobile device?
Is it OK to share my IMEI number?
What can a hacker NOT DO with an IMEI ID

IMEI stands for International Mobile Equipment Identity. Every mobile has a unique 15-digit number that is globally unique referred to as the device ID or IMEI ID, and if the mobile device has 2 SIM slots then the device will have two IMEI ID’s.

The IMEI identifies the device type but also confirms the model, release year, make, and other device specifications. The carrier network will use the IMEI number to approve the device and connections permission. This is how they know if your device is compatible with their network or if its locked to a specific carrier, or if the phone has been blacklisted for some reason.

You want to store the IMEI number in a safe place that is secure.
If the device is stolen, or is lost and you never expect to get the device back, then you will want the IMEI number to report to police, the police report is used for insurance purposes if you have insurance that covers the loss.

If your lucky enough to get cooperative police, the police can request the carrier to track the device via a warrant or judicial requirement, but this might require you to educate them on their powers and hope they are engaged enough to care. My experience is that they have no idea what to do in the case of a stolen phone other than help you fill out paperwork.

You can also report your device as stolen to your carrier and request them to report it as stolen. They will add the IMEI ID to a global database so the carriers will no longer accept this IMEI ID to connect to their network. This means you will never be able to track your device and just have to accept that it’s gone.

Some Professionals & cybersecurity experts use IMEI Hack software or IMEI Mobile Phone Tracker Tools to find the real-time location of suspicious, missing, or stolen devices. This also means there are nefarious experts who are willing to accept money to do that same.

If you buy a used or refurbished phone, buy it from a reputable vendor. Make sure the vendor has good reviews, or that they are an established business. If someone is selling you an iphone out of their trunk for a great price then it’s possible the phone is stolen and blacklisted already. As soon as you get the IMEI ID, run it through a phone check service such as MobiCHECK to find the history of the phone, including if it’s been reported as lost or stolen, and if it’s been blacklisted or blocked. If you do have a blacklisted phone and your not the original owner that the carrier can verify, then you can check with a 3rd party provider to see if they can unlock it for a fee, but they will want to verify some information on the history of the device as well.

The IMEI number should not be shared publicly because this is deemed as private information. You never want to share your device IMEI number unless you absolutely have to because someone could decide to harass you by reporting your device as stolen, forcing you to deal with getting it unlocked.

IMEI number tracking is done very often by hackers. Yes, it is possible for hackers to track you with your device IMEI number. If it can be done in ethical ways where law enforcement agencies track people using their IMEI number with the help of telecom operators then there are hackers willing to do the same for money.

The IMEI also identifies the phone brand, model and specifications. Hackers could use this information to impersonate you with the Carrier to execute a SIM swap, or try and get a new phone on your mobile plan. The typical call center employee is going to verify the hacker if they are quoting the exact model of your device and have done their homework on your personal information.

Using IMEI, a hacker cannot connect to your phone or have even the slightest bit of access to it. No one can get your calls or SMS on another device, Using IMEI. Using IMEI, a person cannot control your phone, or any apps installed.

[mfrazeehvacc]

Great information. Thanks for making this

[Relaxationstation]

I have a question? I have a IMEI that doesn't match my account from phone. Have had the phone for 4 years now, bought new from other carrier. it was a BYOD with new carrier. No issues with service with xfinity.

[imPlantrr]

I had someone interested in purchasing my old phones, a "firend, " and the next day I get emails saying my ATT password has been succesfully changed after i gave him the IMEI. Is this coicidence or is it possible for my ATT account to be comprommised from giving this data to someone.

[agampratapsingh]

Sir ' I have a question. While getting Esim a shopkeeper has clicked a picture of IMEI and EID number of my phone, can he use these to see my mobile data and other things?? Please reply sir.

[cawildschut]

Hii i have n prblm on my phone when the phone goes on it don't go in the time te phone get on there stand imei is tampered;stop boot! how can i make its right

[fuzzytugboat]

Can a hacker find your IMEI by knowing your cell phone number? Does the IMEI store all Sim numbers used by the said phone?

[iamlivinme]

Under what circumstances would your carrier ask for this numbers? Serious question because I have given mine over the phone to someone I believe worked for T-mobile or apple

[cheriamor]

What if I’m buying a phone like you addressed and before paying I’d like to get the imei? Do you still not suggest the seller sending the Imei information?

[airtelbasha]

How to check sim number
using IMEI NUMBER POSSIBLE??

[fxjtwbk]

Still not fool proof. Fuck this im buying a blanket and just sending smoke signals.

[marcosdavid]

What if I've given my IMEI number to someone unknown