How to Check if a Phone is Stolen Before Buying
Verify any phone's IMEI number in 3 seconds with SafeOrStolen's free checker. We search 100+ databases including carrier blacklists, GSMA, and police records to protect you from buying stolen or blacklisted devices.
Quick IMEI Check
Key Takeaways
- Always check the IMEI number before buying any used phone - takes 3 seconds
- SafeOrStolen checks 100+ databases including carrier blacklists and police records
- A blacklisted phone cannot be activated - you'll lose your money
- Download the SafeOrStolen app to verify phones on the spot at meetups
Step-by-Step: Check if a Phone is Stolen
Get the Phone's IMEI Number
Before meeting the seller, ask for the phone's IMEI number. This is a unique 15-digit identifier for every phone. There are several ways to find it:
Dial *#06#
Works on any phone - displays IMEI instantly
Phone Settings
iPhone: Settings > General > About
Original Box
Printed on the barcode label
Red Flag: If the seller refuses to provide the IMEI, do not proceed with the purchase. This is a major warning sign.
Enter IMEI in SafeOrStolen
Enter the 15-digit IMEI number in SafeOrStolen's free verification tool. You can do this:
On the App (Recommended)
Check on the spot when meeting sellers. SafeOrStolen is the ONLY stolen phone checker with a mobile app.
Download AppReview Verification Results
SafeOrStolen checks 100+ databases in 3 seconds and returns one of these results:
Clean / Safe
Phone is not reported stolen or blacklisted. Safe to buy.
Stolen / Blacklisted
Phone is reported stolen or on carrier blacklist. DO NOT BUY.
Financed / Pending
Phone has unpaid balance. May be blacklisted later.
Check for Activation Locks
Even if the IMEI is clean, check for activation locks that could prevent you from using the phone:
iPhone (iCloud Lock)
- • Go to Settings > Apple ID
- • Ensure they sign out of their Apple ID
- • Check Find My iPhone is OFF
- • Factory reset should complete without prompts
Android (Google FRP)
- • Go to Settings > Accounts
- • Remove all Google accounts
- • Factory reset should complete without Google prompts
Inspect the Physical Phone at Meetup
When you meet the seller, complete these final verification steps:
- Dial *#06# to confirm IMEI matches what you checked
- Check for signs of tampering (scratches around SIM tray, screen bubbles)
- Test all functions: screen, speakers, camera, buttons, ports
- Insert your SIM card to verify it activates on your carrier
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I check if a phone is stolen for free?
Use SafeOrStolen's free IMEI checker. Enter the 15-digit IMEI number and we'll verify against 100+ databases. You get 2 free checks, no credit card required.
Where do I find the IMEI number on a phone?
Dial *#06# to display the IMEI. On iPhone: Settings > General > About. On Android: Settings > About Phone > Status. It's also on the original box or SIM tray.
What happens if I buy a stolen phone?
A stolen phone may be reported to police, who can confiscate it. The phone may also be blacklisted, preventing activation on any carrier network. You lose your money and the phone.
Can a stolen phone be unlocked?
No legitimate service can unlock a stolen phone. The IMEI remains blacklisted regardless of carrier unlock. iCloud/Google locks cannot be bypassed without original owner's credentials.
Is it illegal to buy a stolen phone?
Knowingly buying stolen property is illegal. Even accidental purchase can result in losing the phone to police. Always verify with SafeOrStolen before buying.
Ready to Check a Phone?
Protect yourself from buying stolen phones. Verify in 3 seconds.