How to Check if an iPhone is Stolen with IMEI Number
In today’s digital age, the loss or theft of an iPhone can be a distressing experience. One of the most crucial steps in dealing with such an incident is to verify whether the iPhone has been reported as stolen. This is where the IMEI number comes into play. The International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) is a unique 15-digit number assigned to every iPhone, which can be used to check if the device has been reported stolen. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to check if an iPhone is stolen using its IMEI number.
Step 1: Find the IMEI Number
The first step is to locate the IMEI number of your iPhone. There are several ways to do this:
1. Go to Settings > General > About, and you will find the IMEI number listed under “IMEI.”
2. If your iPhone has a SIM card, you can also find the IMEI number by entering 06 on the keypad.
3. For iPhone models with two SIM cards, you can find the IMEI number for the first SIM card by entering 06, and for the second SIM card, enter 06 again.
Step 2: Check the Stolen Device Database
Once you have the IMEI number, you can use it to check if the iPhone has been reported as stolen. There are several online databases and services that can help you with this:
1. Apple’s Activation Lock Status Check: Visit the Apple Activation Lock Status webpage and enter the IMEI number to see if the iPhone is locked or reported as stolen.
2. GSMArena’s Stolen Device Checker: This website allows you to search for the IMEI number and check if the iPhone has been reported as stolen.
3. Other third-party services: There are various other online services that can help you check the IMEI number of a stolen iPhone. Be cautious when using these services, as some may not be reliable.
Step 3: Report the Stolen iPhone to Authorities
If you find that your iPhone has been reported as stolen, it’s essential to report the incident to the authorities. This will help prevent the thief from using the device and ensure that you can recover it if it’s found. Here’s what you should do:
1. Contact your local police department and file a report.
2. Report the stolen iPhone to your service provider.
3. If you have insurance coverage for your iPhone, contact your insurance company to file a claim.
Conclusion
Checking if an iPhone is stolen using its IMEI number is a crucial step in dealing with the loss or theft of your device. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that you take the necessary actions to protect your personal information and recover your stolen iPhone. Remember to keep your IMEI number safe and report any theft to the authorities immediately.
