FAQs
Additionally, changing the IMEI may cause the phone to stop working or function improperly. The phone may also be blacklisted by the mobile carrier, which would prevent it from being able to connect to the network. Additionally, changing the IMEI may void the warranty of the device.
What are the disadvantages of changing IMEI number? ›
Changing the IMEI number of your phone is not safe. It can cause a number of problems, including: The phone may not be able to connect to a cellular network. The phone may be blacklisted by cellular carriers.
Does changing the IMEI number make a phone untraceable? ›
"The changed IMEI mobile gets virtually a new identity, making it impossible to detect.
What does changing your IMEI number do? ›
The IMEI number is hardcoded into your device. Therefore, changing your device's IMEI number may void your device warranty and cause other issues such as network problems and software instability. Legally, you have forfeited your ownership of your mobile device.
Can IMEI be changed permanently? ›
Your IMEI is not actually changed. The IMEI is physically stored in phone as a file. This file is not modified. Changing of IMEI is done in the following way: The Android OS is patched, so when it read the IMEI from the file - the result is replaced with the user's predefined value.
Can a phone be tracked if the IMEI is changed? ›
Yes, it's possible to track a stolen device through its SIM card, even if the IMEI has been changed. Law enforcement agencies can work with mobile network operators to track the SIM card's usage and location, which can help in locating the stolen device.
Does the IMEI number change after factory reset? ›
A unique IMEI is baked into the mobile equipment's (i.e. your iPhone's) electronics at the factory during manufacturing. It cannot be changed. Nothing happens to the IMEI during a factory reset. It remains unchanged.
Can someone go through my phone with my IMEI number? ›
Yes, it is extremely important that you always keep your IMEI number safe, because it could be used for hacking. One of the most common ways to use IMEI for hacking is known as SIM card cloning. In this process, hackers will create a duplicate version of your smartphone and use it to hack into your original device.
How do I block my IMEI number from being tracked? ›
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.
What happens if someone knows my IMEI number? ›
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. Block your phone from being used on a network.
but you really shouldn't. Can you change the IMEI number on a cell phone? Yes, but it's INCREDIBLY illegal if you change your IMEI to an IMEI that's being used by another device.
Is your IMEI linked to your phone number? ›
The point of the IMEI is to identify the device – not the user. The information IMEI provides is added when the phone is built, meaning it does not include any information about the name or address of the phone registered or the number on the SIM card.
What happens when you block IMEI number? ›
If the IMEI is blocked, you'll not be able to use Cellular services with any Carrier. Only the Carrier that registered the IMEI block can remove it. A blocked IMEI might, for many buyers, be a good reason to look elsewhere for a previously owned device.
Can a switched off phone be tracked using IMEI number? ›
Is it possible to track a phone if it is turned off? No, IMEI tracking requires the phone to be turned on and connected to a cellular network. Can I track my phone using GPS instead of IMEI? If your phone has GPS tracking enabled and a tracking app installed, you may be able to use GPS for tracking.
What happens if your IMEI is cloned? ›
Here are some of the potential consequences: Unauthorized Use of Your Device: If someone else uses your stolen IMEI on their device, it could lead to unauthorized access to mobile networks and services. This can result in charges for calls, texts, or data usage that you did not authorize.
Can hackers change IMEI number? ›
Can Someone Hack Your IMEI Number? The short answer is no. People can't hack an IMEI number because it's a code embedded in the phone's hardware that can't change. Many think it can be hacked because they confuse IMEI hacking with IMEI cloning and SIM swapping.
What happens if you give out your IMEI number? ›
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.
What happens if you have 2 IMEI numbers? ›
International Mobile Equipment Identity, or dual IMEI, is the term used to describe the unique identifying numbers allotted to each SIM card slot in a dual SIM phone. Dual IMEI numbers enable customers to use two separate SIM cards on a single device simultaneously.
Why is my IMEI number important? ›
An IMEI stands for International Mobile Equipment Identity. Think of it as your phone's fingerprint — it's a 15-digit number unique to each device. Phone carriers and manufacturers share IMEI numbers to enable tracking of smartphones that may be stolen or compromised.
What happens if IMEI is bad? ›
A bad or a blocked Equipment Serial Number (ESN) or International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number can signal a reported stolen phone. It can also signify a phone that is associated with someone who's been late (or has stopped) making payments on their phone.