In many Internet forums, IMEI numbers are a source of both paranoia and mystery. These nebulous, enigmatic numbers are usually employed to identify devices, prompting some to question whether IMEI can be exploited for spying and other malicious purposes. We help you understand what IMEI number is, how they function, and where you can locate them.
What Is an IMEI Number?
The IMEI number is a code utilized to identify a phone that connects to a cellular connection on the ground.
You could wonder, “What is a terrestrial cellular network?” The terrestrial cellular network is the network you utilize when you use your mobile phone to make a call or activate your data package to use an Internet service supplied by your cellular provider. It’s called “terrestrial” because it connects via planet-side antennas rather than satellites.
You might already know this, but having a clear explanation of the query is valid because the IMEI standard applies for any terrestrial cellular network device. These numbers are found on 3G & 4G tablets, laptops with PCMCIA wireless Internet cards, and other mobile devices. You will see two IMEI numbers for each SIM slot if you have a dual-SIM mobile.
What Is the Objective of an IMEI Number?
The primary purpose of IMEI numbers is to identify mobile phones. Their secondary goal, or purpose, is to keep others from stealing. A thief cannot replace the SIM card on a device and intends to keep it if it can be internationally recognized. Because IMEI numbers are hard-coded into phone hardware, changing them is practically tricky without causing damage to the mobile phone.
When an operator discovers that a phone got misplaced or stolen, it can block the IMEI code and prevent the phone from connecting to the network. Later, it instructs other cellular carriers to fall into line.
Is It Possible for The Government to Track Me Using My IMEI Number?
It is debatable. The government won’t know who your cell phone belongs to unless they can connect a name or some other form of private information to it. It is a common issue with prepaid consumers. There is no method to link an IMEI number to an ID card or face because they do not sign agreements with their cellular operators. At the very least, the process is tiresome.
The authorities may employ a search warrant to acquire your IMEI info for location and number tracking if you have an agreement with a cell provider. So, even if you switch to a prepaid SIM card, the government may still track you. In a later blog, we will discuss this in further detail.
You should be concerned about more than just the government. If required, cybercriminals can use your IMEI number to track you down. However, none of these scenarios occurs very frequently in the ordinary person’s life.
Are IMEI Numbers Found on All Mobile Phones?
Because counterfeit devices built to comply with regulations frequently lack IMEI numbers. India first had issues with these phones in 2010, and they’ve been trying to solve the problem for years. “No, certain phones do not have IMEI numbers,” says the answer, “but those are frequently illegal.”
Government agencies worldwide utilize IMEI-less cellphones to prevent being tracked by black counter-intelligence ops.
Is My IMEI Number Valid?
The IMEI numbers on some counterfeit devices are incorrect. The Luhn method for confirmation of identity codes is the most straightforward approach to manually examining the authenticity of an IMEI number. There is always the web IMEI checker at IMEI if you desire the most uncomplicated process to verify your IMEI Information.
What Is Your IMEI Number, and How Do You Check It?
Check IMEI on Android Phone
The quickest way to check your device’s IMEI number is to open your keypad and dial *#06#. Immediately, your IMEI number will appear on your device. However, you would not be allowed to copy and paste the number, so you will have to jot it down manually to keep track of it.
You may also visit the “Settings” menu, then scroll down and click on “About Phone” there, you will find “Status” and then click on “IMEI Information” if the previous technique does not function for whatever reason.
If you’re a hoarder, get ready to feel vindicated for keeping that box in which your mobile phone came! A new device’s IMEI number is usually printed on the device box, sometimes on a label with a barcode.
If none of the other ways works, you might be able to locate your IMEI number on your SIM card slot or, if your device has a removable case, under the device battery.
Check IMEI on iPhone
The process for determining the IMEI on your iPhone is similar. Dial *#06# on your device’s keypad, then press the green “Call” option to see your IMEI displayed on the screen.
If that fails, you may look on the backside of your iPhone for the IMEI number. Under the “iPhone” logo, it’s written in small letters.
Run IMEI Check for Your Phone
You intend to do anything with your IMEI now that you got it, correct? There are several websites where you can type your device’s IMEI number and receive a list of accurate information and specifications on your phone, like imei.info. Another website, imeipro.info, allows you to verify whether your device is blocked/reported as stolen or lost by entering your IMEI number. If you are purchasing a used phone, it is always a smart option to do this.
IMEI is Awesome!
The IMEI standard is one of the most efficient ways we’ve found to stop criminals in their tracks and enhance phone security. Criminals could potentially utilize even the number against you. The threat is worth it.
