Utility Guide
What is IMEI? How to Find & Check Your Number
Everything you need to know about your phone's unique identity number — in plain language.
⚡ Quick Answer
IMEI is a unique 15-digit number that identifies your mobile device on cellular networks. Find it instantly by dialing *#06# on any phone.
You can use it to check if a second-hand phone is stolen, report a lost device, or verify a phone's authenticity before purchase.
What Does IMEI Stand For?
IMEI stands for International Mobile Equipment Identity. It is a unique 15-digit serial number assigned to every GSM, WCDMA, and LTE mobile device in the world. Think of it as a device's permanent fingerprint — no two phones on Earth share the same IMEI number.
Unlike SIM cards (which identify the subscriber), the IMEI identifies the physical device itself. This is why you can swap SIM cards and still be tracked by IMEI if your phone is stolen and reported to authorities.
How to Find Your IMEI Number — 4 Methods
Method 1: Dial *#06# (Fastest)
Open your dialer and type *#06# — your IMEI(s) will appear instantly on screen. Works on Android and iPhone. No call required.
Method 2: Phone Settings
Android: Settings → About Phone → Status → IMEI
iPhone: Settings → General → About → scroll to IMEI
Method 3: Original Box / Receipt
The IMEI is printed on a sticker on your phone's original retail box. Keep your box — this is your proof of purchase if the phone is ever stolen.
Method 4: Under the Battery (Older Phones)
On older Android phones with removable batteries, the IMEI is printed on a sticker inside the battery compartment.
Understanding the 15-Digit IMEI Structure
Digits 1–2: RBI/TAC Prefix
Reporting Body Identifier — indicates the standards body that assigned the number.
Digits 3–8: TAC (Device Model)
Type Allocation Code — identifies the manufacturer and device model.
Digits 9–14: Serial Number
Unique serial number for this specific device unit within the model.
Digit 15: Check Digit (Luhn)
Calculated using the Luhn algorithm to verify the IMEI is valid and not tampered with.
What Can You Do With an IMEI Number?
- Check if a second-hand phone is stolen — verify before buying used devices
- Report a lost or stolen phone — telecom operators can blacklist the IMEI
- Verify phone authenticity — confirm the device model matches what was advertised
- Network unlock — some carriers require IMEI to process SIM unlock requests
- Insurance claims — IMEI is required when claiming mobile insurance
Is it Safe to Share Your IMEI?
You should be careful about who you share your IMEI with. While knowing someone's IMEI alone cannot be used to clone a phone or access your data, a malicious actor could potentially use it to fraudulently blacklist your device. Only share your IMEI with:
- Your telecom operator (to report theft)
- Law enforcement (for stolen device reports)
- Your insurance provider
- A trusted buyer/seller during a legitimate phone transaction
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an IMEI number?
IMEI stands for International Mobile Equipment Identity — a unique 15-digit number that identifies every mobile device on cellular networks worldwide. No two devices share the same IMEI.
How do I find my IMEI number?
Dial *#06# on your phone dialer — the IMEI appears instantly. Or go to Settings → About Phone → Status on Android, or Settings → General → About on iPhone.
Can I check if my phone is stolen using the IMEI?
Yes. In India, use the CEIR (Central Equipment Identity Register) portal. Internationally, use GSMA Device Check. A blacklisted IMEI means the device has been reported stolen.
Can an IMEI number be changed?
Changing an IMEI is illegal in most countries including India. It is stored in hardware and any modification is tampering with a government-regulated device identifier.
Validate Any IMEI Number Instantly
Check if any 15-digit IMEI passes the Luhn algorithm — 100% private, no data sent to any server.
Open IMEI Validator →