if you lose your mobile phone and can be frustrating, so tracking it might be easy using its IMEI. It is a 15-digit number and an easy identifier that helps you track and block your phone.
This blog provides comprehensive details on how to track a lost mobile phone using its IMEI number. We have outlined the steps to locate your device and explained the best methods for tracking it. If you're eager to learn how to recover your lost phone using its IMEI, read this blog to the end.
So, let’s begin!
What is an IMEI Number?
The IMEI number is a 15-digit unique number its asinine to every mobile phone. The IMEI is used by mobile networks to verify devices and block them if they are reported lost or stolen. It helps differentiate one device from another, even if they are of the same make and model.
To find your phone's IMEI number, you can:
Dial *#06# on the device.
Check the original and purchasing receipt.
Locate it in the setting(“About phone “>” status” on Android and ios.)
If your Google and Apple account is linked to the device.
Steps to Track a Lost Phone Using IMEI
1. Report the Loss to the Authorities
the first step is a report of a lost phone the theft or loss to the police. provided them with the IMEI number. Some countries have dedicated agencies or laws regarding phone theft and can use the IMEI to help locate or block the device. In many cases, law enforcement can help track the device using this number, especially if the phone is used or connected to a network
2. Contact Your Mobile Network Provider
First, you have reported the loss to IMEI, the next step is to get in touch with your mobile network provider. The IMEI number can track your phone's location, and block it from being used on their network. Blocking the IMEI number stops anyone from making calls, sending messages, or using mobile data with that particular phone. if it’s still connected to their network, such as tracking your phone's location Mobile carriers may offer additional services. However, this service is not available in all regions, so it is to check and carry safely.
What to Do After Your Phone Is Stolen
3. Use IMEI Tracking Apps or Websites
some third-party help to track your phone using the IMEI number. Sometimes these services can offer additional tracking options, such as showing the phone's last known location or alternating. some popular websites like IMEI Tracker or IMEI.info, offer tracking options, though their trustable is questionable. your IMEI number and other personal details, make sure you are using trusted options, and double-check any service offering IMEI tracking before providing any information.
4. Use Built-in Phone Tracking Services
IMEI-based tracking may work for some, but modern smartphones come with built-in tracking services, which can be more efficient on IMEI tracking.
For iPhone: Apple offers a Find My iPhone, lock, which allows you to locate, and wipe your phone remotely. You can see its location on a map If the device is online. you can enable to notify when found to receive an alert.
visit iCloud.com/find or use the Find My app on another Apple device.
For Android: Google offers Find My Device for Android phones, lock it,, which lets you locate your device on a map, and even erase your data remotely. Your device be linked to a Google account and location services and internet are enabled.
You can track your Android phone via Google Find My Device.
The IMEI number can be more effective in tracking your phone if it's connected to the internet.
5. Use IMEI to Block the Device:-
you have reported the loss to your device and the police, you can also request to block the IMEI number Blocking the IMEI makes it impossible for anyone to use the phone on most mobile networks. This process stops the thief from accessing your data and ensures that your phone cannot be resold or used by someone else. This service is offered by network providers and the phone has been blocked. Some countries have a database where stolen or lost phones are registered by IMEI number, making it possible for mobile providers to block the device.
Legal Considerations When Tracking Your Lost Phone
It's important to note that IMEI tracking should be done legally. Tracking to locate someone else phone without there is privacy and could lead to legal. Only use IMEI tracking for your device or with the consent of the device owner. Always work through legal channels, like law or your network provider, to ensure that you are following these laws.
Tips to Stop Future Loss of Your Phone
Enable Phone Tracking: If your device is enabled to track features like Find My iPhone or Find My Device. This will help you recover your device more easily if it's lost or stolen.
Use Strong Passwords: protect your phone with a strong password or fingerprint. this makes it impossible for anyone your data if the phone is stolen.
Back-Up Your Data: Regularly back up your data to the cloud or a computer. If your phone is lost, you don't lose important information like photos, contacts, and documents.
Keep a Record of Your IMEI: Your phone IMEI number is always to note down and keep it in a safe place. This information can be useful in the event of theft.
Use Anti-theft Apps:- Use third-party anti-theft apps like Cerberus or Prey, which offer tracking and security features.
Conclusion
Tracking a lost mobile phone using its IMEI number is one of the most reliable ways to try and recover it. However, it’s not a guaranteed solution and may require the cooperation of law enforcement and your mobile network provider. The best way to protect yourself is to take preventive measures, like enabling built-in phone tracking features, backing up your data, and ensuring your phone is secured with a password or biometric lock. If all else fails, act quickly and contact the relevant authorities to maximize your chances of recovering your device.
FAQ’S
1. Can a lost phone be tracked by an IMEI number?
Yes, a lost phone can be tracked using its IMEI number through authorities or your network provider.
2. Can IMEI numbers be tracked without SIM?
Yes, an IMEI number can be tracked without a SIM card if the device connects to Wi-Fi or a network.
3. Can police track IMEI if a phone is off?
No, police cannot track an IMEI if the phone is off, as it must connect to a network to be located.
4. How to locate a lost phone?
Use built-in tracking features like Find My iPhone or Find My Device, or report the IMEI to authorities.
5. Can someone track my phone if my location is off?
Yes, your phone can be tracked via Wi-Fi, cellular networks, or IMEI even if location services are off.
6. How to block the phone if lost?
Contact your mobile provider to block the phone using its IMEI number, preventing unauthorized network use.
