One of the most crucial pieces of your device is its IMEI number. This number is the identity of your device that helps you connect to cellular data.

It tells about the basic information and specifications of your device. You can track the location and find lost mobile phones through the IMEI number.

The number should be only known by you, the retailer, and the manufacturer. The unnecessary sharing of IMEI numbers can leave you at the threat of hacking.

Hackers can use the data for unlawful purposes. You will be suspected of the crime, even if you are innocent. An IMEI number can give your live location – which threatens privacy. Malicious activities due to an IMEI number can cause much trouble.

This article will guide you about the IMEI number, its uses, risk factors, and what precautionary measures you should take.

What Is IMEI?

IMEI stands for International Mobile Equipment Identity. IMEI is a globally unique 15-digit number assigned to every device – also known as device ID.

The format of the IMEI number is WW-XXXXXX-YYYYYY-Z

• WW represents reporting body
• XXXXXX  represents TAC (Type allocation code)
• YYYYYY represents the distinctive ID number of the device
• Z represents the check digit

GMS (global system for mobile communication) is a cellular technology that provides data to mobile devices. GMS uses IMEI numbers to identify mobile devices to enable network access or block stolen mobile devices.

Uses of IMEI Number

An IMEI number is used for the following purposes

• To efficiently track the location of a device
• To find a lost phone or block a stolen device
• To ensure you don’t buy a stolen or lost second-hand device
• To identify a device and provide cellular connectivity
• To know device type, model, and other specification
• To solve the warranty issue – you should know the IMEI number

Dangers of IMEI Number

Following are the 4 dangers of IMEI number

1. SIM Card Cloning

SIM card cloning is the most common way of hacking. A hacker uses an IMEI number to make a duplicate version of the mobile device to hack your original device. He can know the history, status, and other details of the mobile device.

2. Blacklist the Device

The person who has your IMEI number can report the device as stolen – it will add your device to the blacklist. You will not be able to access the network on a mobile device, and you can’t prove your innocence.

3. Track Live Location

Hackers can use IMEI numbers to track your live location. It invades your privacy and can use the information to harm you. Therefore, it’s vital to keep  IMEI numbers safe and protect them from getting into the hands of fraudsters.

4. Scamming Purposes

Your IMEI number can be used to scam others by using malicious and illegal websites. This leaves you at the risk of theft, scam, or hacking and can cause serious charges against you. Hackers use your identity to fraud others.

Find an IMEI Number

Some people don’t know their IMEI number. To secure it – you first know your IMEI number. Fortunately, there are different simple ways to get access to IMEI numbers.

Let’s take a closer look at these 4 methods.

1. Box of Device

Devices come with a box, charger, manual, and some other accessories. The box isn’t only meant for packaging – it has some crucial information. The box of the device has a sticker on the side that mentions the IMEI number.

2. On the Battery Pack

For many mobile devices, you will find an IMEI number printed on the sticker. Open the back of the phone, get access to the battery, look for the sticker and you get your important IMEI number.

3. Dial *#06#

One of the easiest ways to find an IMEI number is to dial it on your keyboard. The number will be displayed on your mobile screen. You can take screenshots or note down the number for future reference.

4. Go to Settings

The settings can slightly vary for iOS and Android devices. The path to find an IMEI number on both devices is shown below.

Apple: Go to settings, tap on general then choose about. Scroll down to find an IMEI number.

Android: Go to settings, choose About the phone – scroll down and you will get an IMEI number.

Ways to Protect IMEI Number

You must know these 5 ways to protect your IMEI number. Here are some of the ways to protect the number.

1. Set a Strong Password

The most important step is to set a strong password for mobile devices. Passwords can be digital codes, fingerprints, pins, patterns, facebook, etc.

2. Don’t Share Device

Any person who has access to the device can easily find the IMEI number. A person can dial *#06# to easily find it. The settings on the device also get the IMEI number. Hence, there are different ways to get it, once you have a mobile in your hand.

3. Trace your Number

Always remember to trace the number in the notebook. It will give you an option to report the IMEI number in time. The hacker will not get the time to use it against any fraudulent activity and it saves you from mishaps.

4. Be Cautious

Some websites might require you to write an IMEI number. Always be careful, because they can get your data and use it for unlawful activities. Add personal information on trusted websites for security.

5. Security Upgrades

Download security upgrades on the device. These upgrades help to secure all the information and provide security against misuse of data.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the different ways to check IMEI numbers?

Some of the ways to check an IMEI number are

• Dial *#06# on your mobile device
• Check the number on the box or battery pack
• Go to settings and find the IMEI number

2. Can someone track the location with the IMEI number?

Yes, someone can track live locations with an IMEI number. You add a number in the tracker, it assists you in finding the live location. Police officers, secret agencies, and law forces use this technique to track locations.

3. What should I do if my phone is stolen?

You should report the case to the service provider. They will block the IMEI number. This action will give you the security that no one will use numbers in unlawful activities.