Accepting a stolen phone for repair exposes your shop to serious legal risk. An IMEI check takes 10 seconds and can save you from major headaches.
What Is IMEI?
IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique 15-digit serial number assigned to every mobile device. No two devices share the same IMEI — it's like a fingerprint for phones.
How to Find a Device's IMEI
- Dial *#06# on the device — it displays instantly
- Settings → General → About (iPhone) or Settings → About Phone (Android)
- Check the original box or invoice
- Read the SIM tray (on many iPhone models)
Why Repair Shops Must Check IMEI
- 🚫 Stolen device protection: A blacklisted IMEI means the device was reported stolen
- ⚖️ Legal liability: Repairing a known-stolen device can make you an accessory
- 🏢 Business reputation: One incident can damage years of trust
- 📋 Warranty verification: Check if device is still under manufacturer warranty
✅ Best practice: Check IMEI before accepting every device. Make it part of your standard intake process.
🔍 IMEI Check Tool — Free to Use
RepairERP includes IMEI lookup in every repair ticket. Protect your shop.
Start Free →What to Do If the IMEI Is Blacklisted
Do not accept the repair. Politely explain that you cannot service devices with blacklisted IMEIs. Document the incident. If you suspect criminal activity, you may have a legal obligation to report it.