How to Find IMEI on Android

It doesn’t matter what Android phone you are using, from Motorola, MI, Samsung to Oneplus, all Android phones have their unique IMEI number. You must always write down or have a copy of your phone’s IMEI and serial number somewhere(other than in your phone of course). These identification numbers will be invaluable in certain emergency situations like theft or misplacement of your phone.

What is an IMEI number?

IMEI stands for International mobile equipment identity. It is a 15-digit unique identification number set by the device manufacturer to identify the device. This means that each legitimate device on the planet should have a unique IMEI number associated with it. Stolen phones often have exchanged or replaced IMEI numbers to fool the customers. To counter this you can enquire about the device’s IMEI number at a (preferable your)phone service provider. Ask them if they have blocked or blacklisted this IMEI number. You can also get to know the exact brand and model of the phone linked with the number. Let’s go through some methods you can follow to obtain your Android device’s IMEI number:

Find IMEI on Android through Settings

1. Launch the “Settings” app on your phone.
2. Scroll down to the bottom and tap on “About device”/”About phone” (Might be at the top too).
3. Your IMEI number should be somewhere in the list of specs.
4. There can be minor differences between brands, but rest assured you will find it somewhere in the specs list.

Find IMEI on Android through Dialer

1. Launch the dialer/phone app on your Android phone.
2. Dial the number *#06#.
3. A pop-up will appear in a few seconds with your phone’s IMEI number on it.

Check the Original Box

Do you have the product box in which you bought your phone? If yes follow these steps to find your IMEI number:

1. Find the product box of your Android smartphone.
2. There should be a sticker with a barcode on that box. It might have been used as a seal for the box.
3. You will find your Android’s IMEI and Serial number clearly labeled on the sticker with the barcode.
4. Keep in mind that the IMEI number is also called the MEID number, depending on your service provider.

Points to Remember

• When you finally have your IMEI number with you it is important to keep it private.
• It is not necessarily
• super-sensitive information like your passwords or credit card number, but it might be misused by someone with malicious intent.
• It can be used to present a stolen device as an original or legitimate one.
• There are quite a few situations when you might have to give your phone’s IMEI number to someone else, so if the reasons are illegitimate then be cautious.
• If you are buying a second-hand phone it would be recommended that you confirm that the phone is not stolen. You can do this by that device’s IMEI number.
• If your phone is lost or stolen and you are sure that you won’t ever be able to get it back, you should report it to your mobile carrier service.
• They will block your phone which will render it useless as no network service will work on it anymore. Even if someone changes the SIM, they won’t be able to make any calls whatsoever.