What Do You Mean By IMEI?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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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 is IMEI example?

IMEI stands for International Mobile Equipment Identity and is a unique identifier for a mobile device. ... IMEI numbers are typically 15 digits in length. Here are some example (and invalid) IMEI numbers: * 990000862471854 * 351756051523999 . ESNs can have several formats, including the IMEI and the MEID.

How do I read my IMEI number?

  1. Starting from the right, double every other digit (e.g., 7 → 14).
  2. Sum the digits (e.g., 14 → 1 + 4).
  3. Check if the sum is divisible by 10.

What if someone has my IMEI number?

For instance, if someone has the IMEI for your smartphone or cell phone, he or she can clone your mobile device . ... As well, apps such as WhatsApp use your IMEI as an identifier, so someone could potentially gain easy access to your WhatsApp account if he or she has your IMEI number.

Is IMEI number safe to share?

The IMEI number is also written on the SIM card tray on a few phones. ... Whichever method you use, make sure to write down the IMEI number and keep it safe. That way, you’ll be able to give it to your carrier in case your phone gets lost or stolen. Also, make sure you don’t share the IMEI number with other people .

What is the purpose of IMEI number?

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 .

Can you tell carrier by IMEI?

To find it, dial *#06# or look in your device’s settings . You’ll need to know your phone’s IMEI number if you’re thinking about switching cell phone carriers, as you’ll need it to ensure your phone’s compatible with the new network.

Is IMEI same as serial number?

Your International Mobile Station Equipment Identity (IMEI) number is different from your SSN, ICCID or IMSI. It is a unique serial number given to a device when it is manufactured that identifies a device on a mobile network, but not the subscriber. ... On Android, go to the “About Phone” menu.

How can I check IMEI for free?

  1. Dial *#06# to see the IMEI number on your screen. The IMEI is a unique number assigned to your phone. ...
  2. Enter your IMEI in the white bar field above. You will first have to pass the CAPTCHA test. ...
  3. Verify that the IMEI is clean and the phone is not blacklisted.

What is the difference between Meid and IMEI?

Your IMEI is basically the same thing as a vehicle’s VIN number. Your MEID is also a personal device identification number. The difference between the two is the amount of characters in each identification number . GSM networks like AT&T and T-Mobile use IMEI numbers.

Can thieves change IMEI number?

All mobile phones can be tracked and located with the help of a unique ID called IMEI number. ... However, thieves change the IMEI number of stolen mobiles using a ‘flasher’ . A flasher is a small device that helps connect the handset to a computer and allows the user to modify the IMEI number.

Can I change IMEI number?

An IMEI number is a 15 digit long number printed on the backside of your phone as well as on the mobile packaging box and is used to track the device when lost or stolen. Each IMEI number is unique to a mobile set and can never be changed or replaced , unlike a SIM card.

How can I change my IMEI number permanently?

Restart your android device or do it on the Xposed Installer APK app. Open the IMEI Changer App after restarting the device. It will show your phone’s current IMEI number. To change it, press the New IMEI Number box, type the preferred number, and then click the Add button to save the changes.

Is it safe to share IMEI and PCBA number?

DO NOT give any stranger your IMEI or PCBA numbers . Ever. They are individual numbers inextricably tied to your device and giving them away to strangers can have severe consequences.

Why do I have two IMEI numbers?

IMEI works like your mobile’s social security number and can be used to track your phone if it gets lost or stolen . ... If you are using a dual SIM phone, then it will have 2 IMEI numbers. One for each SIM, which means each slot has its own ID.

Who can track IMEI number?

How do police track IMEI numbers? Every phone has a specific 15-digit number known as the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number. This number can be used by the police to locate your lost or misplaced cell phone.

Charlene Dyck
Author
Charlene Dyck
Charlene is a software developer and technology expert with a degree in computer science. She has worked for major tech companies and has a keen understanding of how computers and electronics work. Sarah is also an advocate for digital privacy and security.