The Ultimate Guide to Your Phone’s Secret Code: Everything You Need to Know About $*#06#$ and Your IMEI Number

Unlocking Your Phone’s Identity: What Happens When You Dial $*#06#$?

 

In the vast and often complex world of mobile technology, there exist certain universal commands that operate like secret handshakes between a user and their device. Among the most useful of these is the simple code $*#06#$. This sequence, when entered into a phone’s dialer, provides immediate access to a critical piece of information that serves as the device’s unique global identity. Understanding this code and the number it reveals is the first step toward mastering your device’s security and functionality.

 

The Instant Reveal: Your First Encounter with $*#06#$

 

Dialing $*#06#$ on a mobile phone is a universal Man-Machine Interface (MMI) Supplementary Service code.1 The moment the final

# is pressed, the phone’s screen will instantly display its International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number.3 There is no need to press the “call” or “send” button; the command is executed automatically, making it the fastest and most direct method for retrieving this information.5

This immediate response is not a feature designed by a specific manufacturer like Apple or Samsung, nor is it exclusive to operating systems like iOS or Android. Its universal nature across virtually all mobile devices points to a foundational standard embedded within the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) protocol itself.1 This standardization ensures that every device, regardless of its brand or price point, has a consistent method for identifying itself, a feature that is indispensable for global network operators, law enforcement agencies, and consumers alike. The number revealed is a unique 15-digit code that identifies the physical hardware of the phone, not the person using it.1

 

Why Do I See Two IMEI Numbers? Understanding Dual SIM and eSIM

 

Upon dialing $*#06#$, many users are surprised to see not one, but two IMEI numbers displayed on their screen.3 This is a perfectly normal and increasingly common occurrence, directly related to the rise of dual-SIM technology. A phone equipped to handle two separate network connections—whether through two physical SIM card slots, or a combination of one physical SIM and one embedded SIM (eSIM)—will possess two unique IMEI numbers.7

The logic behind this is straightforward: each SIM slot or module acts as an independent communication device that must register with a cellular network. To do so, each requires its own unique identifier.7 Typically, the numbers are assigned logically:

IMEI 1 corresponds to the primary physical SIM slot, while IMEI 2 is assigned to the secondary slot or the eSIM.7 On the newest generation of devices, such as the iPhone 14 and later models which have moved away from physical SIM trays entirely, both IMEI numbers are designated for eSIMs.10 This preemptive clarification is crucial for users, as it addresses a common point of confusion and introduces the important distinction between different types of SIM technology.

 

More Than Just a Number: Why Your IMEI is Your Phone’s Digital Fingerprint

 

To fully grasp the significance of the IMEI, it is helpful to think of it through analogies. It is often compared to a vehicle’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which provides a complete history and identity for a car.5 It can also be likened to a person’s fingerprint or social security number—a unique identifier that is, for all practical purposes, permanent and singular to that individual entity.12

The core purpose of the IMEI is to provide a globally unique identifier for every single mobile device, ensuring that no two phones share the same identity.1 This uniqueness is the bedrock upon which the entire global mobile ecosystem is built. It allows cellular networks to recognize, validate, and manage the billions of devices connecting to their services every second. This number is not tied to your personal data or your phone number; it is inextricably linked to the hardware itself.12

 

The Complete Toolkit: Every Method to Find Your IMEI Number

 

The central importance of the IMEI in the mobile ecosystem is underscored by the sheer number of ways it can be located. Its accessibility is not a matter of convenience but of necessity, designed to ensure that this critical identifier can be retrieved under a wide range of circumstances—whether the phone is fully functional, powered off, or even lost or stolen. This redundancy is a deliberate design choice reflecting the high-stakes applications of the IMEI, particularly in theft and loss management.

 

The Universal Shortcut: Dialing $*#06#$

 

The quickest and most universally recognized method for finding a phone’s IMEI is by using the dialer code. This method works on any phone that has a dialing keypad, including all modern iPhones and Android devices.3

• For both iPhone and Android users:

1. Open the Phone app, as if to make a call.
2. On the keypad, type the code $*#06#$.
3. The IMEI number (or numbers, for dual-SIM devices) will immediately appear on the screen without any further action.13

 

Digging into Your Settings Menu (When the Dialer Isn’t an Option)

 

For devices without a dialer (like some tablets) or in situations where navigating the menu is preferable, the IMEI is always accessible through the device’s settings.

• For iPhone & iPad (iOS/iPadOS):

1. Navigate to Settings.
2. Tap on General, then tap About.
3. Scroll down the page. The IMEI will be listed among other device information like the serial number and model number.7
4. A helpful feature on iOS is the ability to tap and hold the IMEI number to bring up a “Copy” prompt, allowing for easy pasting into another application.10

• For Android Devices (Samsung, Google Pixel, etc.):

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Scroll to the bottom and tap on About Phone.
3. The IMEI is typically displayed on this screen.11
4. Note that on some Android variations, an extra step may be required. One might need to tap on Status or IMEI Information within the About Phone menu to view the number.2
5. Similar to iOS, Android allows users to press and hold the IMEI to copy it to the clipboard.11

 

The Physical Hunt: Finding the IMEI Printed on the Device

 

When a phone cannot be powered on, the IMEI can still be found by physically inspecting the device. Manufacturers print this number in several locations, ensuring it can be retrieved even from a non-functional handset.

• On the SIM Tray: Many modern smartphones, particularly iPhones from the 4S generation up to the iPhone 13, have the IMEI laser-etched in tiny print directly onto the SIM card tray.5
• On the Back of the Device: For some older iPhone models (like the iPhone 5 and 6 series) and a wide array of Android devices, the IMEI is printed on the back of the phone’s casing.14
• Under the Battery: On older phones that featured removable batteries, the IMEI is almost invariably located on a white sticker inside the battery compartment.1
• On Other Cellular Devices: It is worth noting that any device with cellular capability, such as a smartwatch like the Google Pixel Watch, also has an IMEI. On such wearables, it can often be found in discreet locations like the area where the watch band connects to the case.19

 

When Your Phone is Lost or Stolen: Finding the IMEI Remotely

 

In the stressful event of a lost or stolen phone, accessing the IMEI is paramount for reporting and blocking the device. Fortunately, there are several ways to find it without having the phone in hand.

• The Original Box: The simplest method is to locate the phone’s original packaging. The IMEI is always printed on a sticker on the outside of the box, usually alongside the serial number and a barcode.12
• Using Google’s “Find My Device” (for Android):

1. Using a web browser, go to android.com/find or the Google Dashboard.22
2. Log in with the Google account that is associated with the missing phone.
3. Select the device from the list, and then click the small information icon (an “i” in a circle). A window will appear displaying the phone’s IMEI.13

• Using Apple’s Ecosystem (for iPhone/iPad):

1. Using a web browser, go to appleid.apple.com and sign in with the Apple ID used on the device.13
2. Navigate to the Devices section. Select the relevant device to view its details, including the IMEI and serial number.
3. Alternatively, if the lost device is connected to a Mac computer running macOS Catalina or a later version, its information, including the IMEI, can be viewed in the Finder.22

• Reviewing Purchase Documents: If the phone was purchased online or from a carrier, the IMEI is often listed on the digital receipt, invoice, or in the order history of the account from which it was bought.22
• Contacting Your Carrier: As a final option, the mobile service provider will have a record of the IMEI for any device that has been active on an account. A call to customer service can provide this number.14

 

Decoding the Digits: The Anatomy of an IMEI Number

 

The 15-digit string of an IMEI is not a random sequence of numbers. It is a highly structured code, with each segment conveying specific information about the device’s origin, model, and serial number. This organized global system, managed by the GSMA, allows for a hybrid approach to device identification: a centralized body allocates blocks of numbers (the TAC) to ensure global standardization, while manufacturers retain control over assigning unique serial numbers within their own production lines. This structure is essential for carriers to approve devices for their networks and for regulators to ensure devices meet required standards.9

 

The 15-Digit Standard: Breaking Down the IMEI Format

 

Since 2004, the standard IMEI has followed the format AA-BBBBBB-CCCCCC-D.1 While it appears as a single 15-digit number on a phone’s screen, it is composed of three distinct parts.

 

Component	Digits (Format)	Description
Type Allocation Code (TAC)	First 8 digits (AA-BBBBBB)	This code identifies the specific model and manufacturer of the device. It is allocated by a GSMA-approved group to ensure global uniqueness for each device model. The first two digits (AA) specify the Reporting Body Identifier (RBI) that assigned the TAC.1
Serial Number (SNR)	Next 6 digits (CCCCCC)	This is the individual serial number assigned by the manufacturer to that specific handset. It distinguishes the device from all other devices of the same model (i.e., with the same TAC).1
Check Digit (CD)	Final digit (D)	Known as a Luhn check digit, this final number is calculated from the preceding 14 digits using the Luhn algorithm. Its sole purpose is to act as a simple checksum to verify that the IMEI has been entered or transcribed correctly. This digit is not typically transmitted over the network.1

 

The IMEISV: What’s Different About the 16-Digit Version?

 

In addition to the standard 15-digit IMEI, a 16-digit variation known as the IMEISV exists.5 The acronym stands for International Mobile Equipment Identity – Software Version. The key difference is that the IMEISV replaces the 15th check digit with a two-digit Software Version Number (SVN), resulting in a 16-digit code.7

The purpose of the SVN is to provide manufacturers and network operators with information about the specific version of the firmware or software installed on the device. This is particularly useful for deploying targeted software updates or troubleshooting issues related to a specific software build.9 The structure of the IMEISV is typically represented as a 14-digit body (TAC + SNR) followed by the 2-digit SVN.9

 

Putting Your IMEI to Work: Practical, Everyday Uses

 

The IMEI is far more than a technical identifier; it is a practical tool that empowers consumers and service providers throughout the lifecycle of a device. It acts as a crucial bridge between the physical phone and a vast ecosystem of digital services and databases, including carrier networks, blacklist registries, warranty systems, and unlocking services. The IMEI is the common language these systems use to “talk” about a specific device, enabling a range of high-value actions.

 

The Smart Shopper’s Secret Weapon: Checking a Used Phone’s History

 

Perhaps the most valuable consumer application of the IMEI is in the secondhand phone market. Before purchasing a used device, the IMEI serves as the ultimate background check tool.12 By using one of the many online IMEI checking services, a potential buyer can uncover a wealth of information about the phone’s history.

These services query global databases to verify if the phone has been reported as lost or stolen and subsequently blacklisted.7 A blacklisted phone will be unable to connect to cellular networks, making it a useless purchase. Furthermore, the check can reveal if there are outstanding bills tied to the device, which could also lead to it being blocked by a carrier. Just as importantly, an IMEI check confirms the phone’s true identity—its brand, model, and year of release—protecting the buyer from scams where a seller might try to pass off a cheaper or older model as a more expensive one.5

 

Switching Carriers? Check Compatibility and Unlock Status First

 

In the age of “Bring Your Own Device” (BYOD) plans, the IMEI is essential for ensuring a smooth transition between mobile carriers. When a customer wishes to move to a new network while keeping their existing phone, the new carrier will require the IMEI to check for compatibility.12 Most carriers provide an online compatibility checker on their websites where a user can simply enter the IMEI.12 The system uses the TAC portion of the IMEI to determine if the phone’s hardware supports the network bands used by the carrier.

The IMEI is also the key to unlocking a phone. If a device was purchased from a carrier, it is often “locked” to that carrier’s network. To use it with another provider, the owner must request that the original carrier unlock it. This process invariably requires providing the phone’s IMEI, which the carrier uses to identify the device and process the unlock request.12

 

Essential for Support: Warranty Claims and Repair Services

 

The IMEI serves as the primary tracking identifier for manufacturers and repair centers. When a phone is sent in for repair or a warranty claim is filed, the IMEI is used to log, track, and manage the specific device throughout the entire process.5 It provides proof of the device’s authenticity and links it to its purchase date and warranty status, making it a mandatory piece of information for nearly all technical support and service interactions.9

 

In-depth Guide: How to Use an Online IMEI Checker

 

Using an online service to check a phone’s history is a straightforward process that can save a buyer from significant trouble.

1. Obtain the IMEI: Use one of the methods described in Section 2 to find the 15-digit IMEI of the phone in question. For a phone being purchased, it is best to get the number by dialing $*#06#$ on the device itself to ensure it matches the physical device.
2. Visit a Reputable Checker: Navigate to a well-known IMEI checking website. Several services, such as IMEI.info or doctorSIM, offer free basic checks and more detailed premium reports.27
3. Enter the IMEI: Type the 15-digit number into the search field on the website and initiate the check.
4. Analyze the Report: The service will return a report with various details. A “clean” report indicates the phone is not blacklisted. A “blacklisted” report means it has been reported lost or stolen. The report may also include information on:

• Carrier Lock Status: Whether the phone is locked to a specific carrier.
• iCloud Status (for iPhones): Whether the device is locked to an Apple ID via Activation Lock, which would render it unusable to a new owner.
• Warranty Status: Information about the device’s warranty coverage and eligibility for repairs.27

 

The Blacklist: How Your IMEI Protects You from Theft

 

The single most powerful security feature associated with the IMEI is its role in the global fight against mobile device theft. The IMEI blacklist system is a prime example of industry-wide cooperation designed to disincentivize theft by rendering stolen devices functionally useless, thereby destroying their value on the black market.29

 

What is an IMEI Blacklist?

 

An IMEI blacklist is a shared database maintained by mobile carriers that contains the IMEIs of devices reported as lost, stolen, or, in some cases, associated with unpaid bills.1 This database is often referred to as an Equipment Identity Register (EIR). In many regions, carriers contribute their individual blacklists to a national or international Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR), which synchronizes the data across multiple networks.1

 

How Carriers Block a Stolen Phone

 

The process of blocking a stolen phone is simple yet effective. When any mobile device attempts to connect to a cellular network, one of the first things it does is transmit its IMEI to the carrier’s system for authentication.31 The carrier’s network then automatically checks this incoming IMEI against the shared blacklist database.29

If a match is found, the network immediately denies service to the device. This means the phone will be unable to make or receive calls, send or receive text messages, or use cellular data.1 Crucially, this block is tied to the hardware’s IMEI, not the SIM card. Therefore, even if a thief swaps the SIM card for a new one, the phone remains blocked and effectively becomes a “brick” for communication purposes.29 While this blocking is highly effective within a single country where carriers cooperate, its international efficacy can be inconsistent, as not all countries or carriers participate in a single global blacklist.1 This nuance is important; the system is powerful but not flawless.

 

A Step-by-Step Guide: Reporting Your Phone Lost or Stolen

 

If a phone is lost or stolen, acting quickly is essential to protect personal data and prevent misuse of the device.

• Step 1: Remotely Lock and Erase. The immediate first step should be to use a service like Apple’s Find My or Google’s Find My Device to remotely lock the phone with a passcode. This will prevent immediate access to personal data. If recovery seems unlikely, remotely erasing the device is the next crucial action to protect privacy.23
• Step 2: Contact Your Mobile Carrier. Call the customer service line for the mobile provider. Inform them that the phone has been stolen and request two things: suspend the service for the associated SIM card to prevent fraudulent charges, and add the phone’s IMEI to the blacklist.12
• Step 3: File a Police Report. Contact the local police department to file an official theft report. They will likely require the phone’s IMEI and serial number for the report.35 A police report is often a prerequisite for making an insurance claim and can be useful for disputing any fraudulent activity.38
• Step 4: Notify Your Insurance Provider. If the device is covered by an insurance plan, such as AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss or a third-party policy, file a claim as soon as possible.33

 

How to Unblock an IMEI

 

In the fortunate event that a lost phone is recovered, the original owner can have its IMEI removed from the blacklist. This typically involves contacting the carrier that initiated the block and providing proof of identity and ownership. Once verified, the carrier can unblock the IMEI, restoring its ability to connect to the network.29

 

The Myth and Reality of IMEI Tracking

 

One of the most persistent and dangerous myths surrounding the IMEI is that it functions as a magical tracking beacon, allowing anyone with the number to pinpoint a phone’s live location. This misconception is fueled by desperation when a device is lost and is actively exploited by fraudulent online services. The reality of IMEI tracking is far more nuanced and legally restricted.

 

How IMEI Tracking Technically Works (for Law Enforcement)

 

The ability to track a phone using its IMEI does exist, but it resides exclusively with mobile network operators and is accessible only to law enforcement and intelligence agencies under strict legal conditions. When a phone is powered on and connected to a network, it constantly communicates with nearby cell towers. By measuring the signal strength and timing from multiple towers—a process known as triangulation—the network can approximate the device’s location.39 The IMEI is the identifier used to distinguish which specific device is communicating with these towers. If the phone’s GPS is also active, its location can be determined with much higher precision.40 This powerful capability is a critical tool for authorities in criminal investigations, but it is not available to the public.1

 

The Critical Limitation: Why YOU Can’t Track a Phone with Just the IMEI

 

It must be stated unequivocally: for a private citizen, it is not possible to perform a live track of a phone using only its IMEI number.42 The location data generated by cell tower connections is owned and protected by the mobile carriers. Due to stringent privacy laws and administrative protocols, they will not release this sensitive information to an individual upon request.39

Accessing this real-time location data requires a formal legal process, such as a warrant or a court order, initiated by a law enforcement agency. The only exception might be in cases of extreme emergency, such as a verified child abduction, where legal provisions may allow for expedited access.42 For the average person who has lost their phone, these channels are inaccessible.

 

Debunking Online “IMEI Tracker” Services and Apps

 

A quick search online reveals dozens of websites and apps that claim to offer “free IMEI tracking”.39 These services are almost universally misleading and should be avoided. Their business models typically fall into one of three categories:

1. Outright Scams: Many are designed simply to harvest personal information or trick users into paying for a service that does not work.
2. Tracking via Pre-Installed Apps: Some legitimate-sounding services only work if their specific tracking application was installed and configured on the phone before it was lost. In these cases, the tracking is performed by the app using the phone’s GPS and data connection, not by the IMEI itself.43
3. Misrepresenting Existing Services: Many simply provide the last known location of the device as reported by legitimate services like Google’s Find My Device, and falsely brand this as “IMEI tracking.”

The existence of these fraudulent services is a direct consequence of public misconception. Scammers see a high volume of desperate search queries for “track phone with IMEI” and create deceptive platforms to exploit this demand.

 

What ACTUALLY Works: Find My Device and Find My iPhone

 

The correct, secure, and user-accessible methods for locating a lost phone are the official services provided by Google and Apple: Find My Device and Find My, respectively.22 These services operate through the user’s linked Google or Apple account, not by manually entering an IMEI. For them to function, the lost device generally needs to be powered on and have an active data connection (Wi-Fi or cellular). Apple’s Find My network offers an additional advantage, as it can sometimes locate a device even when it’s offline by using Bluetooth signals from other nearby Apple devices.23 These are the tools that individuals should rely on, not the empty promises of third-party IMEI trackers.

 

Your Phone’s Identity at Risk: The Dangers of IMEI Cloning

 

While the IMEI is a powerful tool for protection, it can also be exploited by sophisticated criminals. The illegal practice of IMEI cloning represents a significant security vulnerability in the mobile ecosystem, turning a device’s unique identity into a tool for fraud and deception. This highlights a critical flaw in the system: its security relies on the assumption that the IMEI is a permanent, unchangeable hardware identifier. The fact that it can be altered with software tools creates a loophole that can be exploited on an industrial scale.

 

Why You Should Guard Your IMEI Like a Password

 

Although an IMEI number does not contain any of your personal data, it should be treated as sensitive information. Sharing it publicly or with untrusted parties can expose you to serious risks.26 A criminal in possession of a valid, “clean” IMEI can use it to perpetrate a variety of illegal activities, potentially implicating the legitimate owner.45

 

What is IMEI Cloning?

 

IMEI cloning, also known as IMEI spoofing, is the illegal act of copying a valid IMEI from a legitimate device and programming it onto a different handset—often one that is stolen or counterfeit.47 This is accomplished using specialized software and hardware tools, sometimes called “flashers,” which can overwrite the original factory-set IMEI on a device’s firmware.48 This practice is a criminal offense in most countries.48

 

The Real-World Consequences of IMEI Fraud

 

The ramifications of IMEI cloning are severe and wide-ranging.

• Financial Fraud: A cloned phone can effectively become a digital twin of the original device. This allows criminals to intercept communications, including sensitive one-time passwords (OTPs) sent by banks for transaction verification, which can lead to the complete draining of a victim’s bank accounts.52
• Identity Theft and False Implication: This is one of the most dangerous consequences. If a cloned phone is used to commit a crime, law enforcement agencies tracing the device will track the IMEI. This trace will lead them directly back to the legitimate owner of the original device, who could then become a primary suspect in a criminal investigation.45
• Device Blacklisting: If the cloned device is used for fraudulent activities and is subsequently reported and blacklisted by a carrier, the block will apply to the IMEI number itself. This means the legitimate owner’s phone will also be blocked from network service, effectively penalizing the victim.45
• Use by Organized Crime: Terrorist cells, drug cartels, and other criminal organizations use cloned phones to communicate with anonymity. By using devices with cloned IMEIs, they make it significantly more difficult for law enforcement to track their movements and activities.52

 

Case Study: The 100,000 Phone Scam in India

 

A stark real-world example of this threat emerged in 2019, when police in India uncovered a massive security breach. They found that over 100,000 mobile phones across the country, many of them stolen, were all operating using the exact same cloned IMEI number.50 The number was a “demo” IMEI that should have been discarded by the manufacturer, Vivo, but was instead leaked and used by criminals with “flasher” devices to activate illicit handsets. This created a security nightmare, as it became impossible for agencies to trace any single device involved in a crime, effectively creating a network of 100,000 ghost phones.50

 

How to Spot a Cloned Phone

 

While cloning can be difficult to detect, there are several warning signs that a phone’s identity may have been compromised:

• Receiving calls or text messages that are clearly intended for someone else.
• Noticing unusual calls or data charges on the monthly phone bill.
• Experiencing persistent difficulty in making outgoing calls or maintaining a network connection, as the carrier’s network may become confused by two devices with the same IMEI trying to connect simultaneously.47
• Discovering unfamiliar applications installed on the device, which could be spyware used to harvest data for cloning.45
• The definitive check: Dial $*#06#$ and meticulously compare the IMEI displayed on the screen with the IMEI printed on the phone’s original box or on the device itself. If the numbers do not match, it is a major red flag that the device has been tampered with.47

 

A World of Codes: IMEI vs. MEID, ICCID, IMSI, and Serial Number

 

The IMEI is just one of several important identifiers associated with a mobile device, and the alphabet soup of acronyms can be confusing. Understanding the distinct purpose of each code is crucial for troubleshooting, security, and interacting with carriers and manufacturers. The existence of different identifiers, particularly IMEI for GSM networks and MEID for CDMA networks, is a historical artifact from the days when competing cellular technologies evolved in parallel. Modern “world phones” are often built to operate on any network and may consequently have both identifiers.

 

The Core Distinction: Device vs. Subscriber

 

The most fundamental way to categorize these codes is to separate them into two groups: those that identify the physical hardware of the device and those that identify the subscriber and their connection to the network.

• Device Identifiers: These are tied to the phone itself and do not change when a SIM card is swapped. They include the IMEI, MEID, and Serial Number.12
• Subscriber/SIM Identifiers: These are tied to the SIM card (or eSIM profile) and your account with the carrier. They move with the SIM card from device to device. They include the ICCID and IMSI.1

 

The Identifier Comparison Table

 

This table provides an at-a-glance reference to clarify the unique role of each major identifier.

 

Identifier	What It Identifies	Network/System	Format	Primary Use Case
IMEI	The physical phone hardware	GSM Networks (e.g., AT&T, T-Mobile)	15 digits	Blacklisting stolen devices, checking network compatibility, hardware tracking.1
MEID	The physical phone hardware	CDMA Networks (historically Verizon, Sprint)	14 digits	The CDMA equivalent of the IMEI for device identification and blocking.7
Serial Number (SN)	The specific device unit	Manufacturer (e.g., Apple, Samsung)	Alphanumeric	Internal tracking by the manufacturer for warranty, repairs, and quality control.12
ICCID	The physical SIM card chip (or eSIM profile)	All Networks	18-22 digits	The unique “serial number” of a SIM card, used by carriers to activate and manage SIMs.8
IMSI	The subscriber’s mobile account	All Networks	15 digits	Links a SIM card to a specific subscriber account for billing and routing calls/data on the network.1

 

Detailed Breakdown of Each Identifier

 

• IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity): As detailed throughout this report, this is the global standard for identifying devices on GSM networks. Carriers use it to allow or deny network access.1
• MEID (Mobile Equipment Identifier): This is the counterpart to the IMEI for CDMA networks. A phone’s MEID is often its IMEI with the final check digit removed.59 As carriers transition to 4G/5G technology, which is based on GSM standards, the IMEI has become the more dominant global identifier.
• Serial Number (SN): This number is assigned by the manufacturer (e.g., Apple, Samsung) for their own internal purposes. It is the primary number used when checking a device’s warranty status or arranging a repair directly with the manufacturer. While a carrier only cares about the IMEI, Apple’s support system revolves around the serial number.55
• ICCID (Integrated Circuit Card Identifier): This is the unique serial number of the SIM card itself. When a user switches phones, the ICCID (along with the IMSI) moves with the physical SIM card to the new device. Carriers use it to manage their inventory of SIM cards.8
• IMSI (International Mobile Subscriber Identity): This number is stored on the SIM card and is the key identifier that links a device to a subscriber’s account. It contains codes for the user’s country and home network, which is how a network knows who to bill for services and how to route calls correctly, especially when roaming.1

 

Conclusion: Your IMEI is Your Responsibility

 

The simple act of dialing $*#06#$ opens a window into the complex and critical world of mobile device identification. The IMEI number it reveals is the bedrock of a phone’s identity, a unique digital fingerprint that governs its ability to connect to networks, prove its legitimacy, and be protected in the event of theft. It is a powerful tool, but like any tool, its effectiveness and security depend on the knowledge and responsibility of its owner.

 

Summary of Key Takeaways

 

• The code $*#06#$ is a universal command that instantly displays a phone’s IMEI, its unique 15-digit hardware identifier.
• The IMEI is essential for a range of practical tasks, including checking the history of a used phone, verifying network compatibility when switching carriers, and processing warranty claims and repairs.
• Its most critical security function is enabling carriers to blacklist a lost or stolen device, rendering it useless on cellular networks and thus deterring theft.
• For the general public, tracking a phone’s live location using only the IMEI is a myth. This capability is restricted to law enforcement acting through official channels. Services claiming to offer this to consumers are misleading.
• The IMEI number is sensitive information. Its theft can lead to IMEI cloning, a serious crime that can result in financial fraud, identity theft, and the false implication of the legitimate owner in criminal activities.

 

Final Recommendations

 

Every mobile phone owner should take a few simple, proactive steps to leverage the power of their IMEI and protect themselves from risk.

• Record Your IMEI Now: Do not wait until an emergency. Use one of the methods in this guide to find your phone’s IMEI number and record it in a safe, secure place separate from the phone itself, such as a password manager or a physical document at home.3
• Be a Smart Shopper: Never purchase a secondhand phone without first verifying its IMEI with an online checking service. Insist on seeing the IMEI displayed on the device itself by dialing $*#06#$.
• Act Fast in an Emergency: If your phone is ever lost or stolen, immediately use Find My Device/iPhone to lock it, then report the theft and the IMEI to both your mobile carrier and local law enforcement.
• Practice Healthy Skepticism: Be vigilant and skeptical of any person or untrusted website that asks for your phone’s IMEI. Unless it is a verified request from your carrier, the manufacturer, or a law enforcement official, do not share it.

Works cited

1. International Mobile Equipment Identity – Wikipedia, accessed July 10, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Mobile_Equipment_Identity
2. 5 Ways to Find the IMEI or MEID Number on a Mobile Phone – wikiHow, accessed July 10, 2025, https://www.wikihow.com/Find-the-IMEI-or-MEID-Number-on-a-Mobile-Phone
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