What is an IMEI Number and How to Find it?

Ever had your phone stop working the minute you landed in another country? No signal. No service. No idea what went wrong.

Chances are, your IMEI number had something to do with it—and you didn’t even know it.

Most travelers never think about their IMEI until it’s too late. It’s not just a random number buried in your settings. It can mean the difference between staying connected or going completely off-grid abroad.

Whether you're unlocking a phone, switching to an eSIM, or making sure your device isn’t blacklisted, your IMEI is the key. And if you don’t know where to find it or how to use it, your trip could turn stressful fast.

Let’s fix that and get to know about What is an IMEI Number—before you pack your bags.

What is an IMEI Number?

The IMEI number is lika fingerprint of your device.

IMEI stands for International Mobile Equipment Identity. It’s a 15-digit number that’s unique to your phone or tablet. Just like your passport identifies you when travelling, the IMEI identifies your device on mobile networks.

This number isn’t something you create or change—the phone manufacturer assigns it and stays tied to your device for life. Mobile carriers use it to recognise your phone, block stolen devices, or check if your device is compatible with certain SIM cards or eSIMs—like Yaalo eSIM when you're travelling abroad.

So, while it may seem like just another tech term, knowing your IMEI is one of the smartest things you can do before switching SIMs, unlocking a phone, or preparing for international travel.

Understanding the Structure of an IMEI Number

At first glance, the IMEI looks like a long, random string of 15 numbers—but there’s a logic behind it:

• Type Allocation Code (TAC) – The first 8 numbers show what brand and model your phone is. Think of it like your phone’s name tag—like “iPhone 14” or “Samsung S23.”
• Serial Number – These 6 numbers are like your phone’s personal ID. No other phone has the same set.
• Check Digit – The last number is a quick check to make sure the whole IMEI is correct and not a mistake.

Together, these numbers create a digital ID that helps phone carriers and manufacturers track, register, and secure your phone. It also helps travellers know whether their phone can support global services like Yaalo eSIM—especially in regions with strict device rules, like China or the UAE.

Why is an IMEI Number Important?

You might not think about your IMEI daily—but when something goes wrong, it suddenly becomes the most important number you’ll need.

Here’s why:

• Device Identification: The IMEI makes it possible for mobile networks to recognise and verify your phone. It’s how your carrier knows what phone is on the line, which is especially important when switching from a regular SIM to an eSIM.
• Security: If your phone is lost or stolen, you can report the IMEI to your carrier. They can block the device from being used on any network—even if the SIM card is removed. That gives you a fighting chance to protect your data and your phone.
• Network Access: Your IMEI also plays a role in checking if your phone is unlocked and compatible with international SIM cards or eSIMs. If your device is blacklisted (flagged as stolen or unpaid), you won’t be able to use local networks abroad—even with an active SIM.

For frequent travellers or digital nomads, this number is essential. It’s the small detail that can make or break your connection overseas.

How to Find Your IMEI Number

Before you travel or switch to an eSIM, it’s a smart idea to know your phone’s IMEI number. Why? Because it’s your device’s digital fingerprint. Here's how to find it easily:

On iPhone:

• Settings Method: Go to Settings → General → About. Scroll down, and you’ll see your IMEI listed.
• Dial Method: Open the phone app and dial *#06#. The IMEI will pop up on your screen—no need to press call.
• Physical Check: Look on the SIM tray or the back of the phone box if you still have the original packaging.

On Android:

• Settings Method: Go to Settings → About Phone → Status. There, you’ll find your IMEI number.
• Dial Method: Just like the iPhone, dial *#06# to view your IMEI instantly.
• Battery Compartment or Packaging: For older models with removable batteries, the IMEI might be printed under the battery. Also, check the original box.

Pro Tip: Screenshot or write down your IMEI and keep it safe. It could save you a major headache if your phone goes missing while travelling.

Using IMEI for Device Tracking

Losing your phone—especially while travelling—can quickly turn a dream trip into a nightmare. Here’s how your IMEI number steps in to help:

• Report the IMEI: As soon as you lose your phone, report the IMEI number to your carrier. They can block the device from being used, even with a different SIM.
• Blacklist the Device: Once reported, your carrier can add your IMEI to a global blacklist. That means your phone becomes unusable to thieves, even if it’s resold.
• Law Enforcement Involvement: In some countries, police can use the IMEI to help locate stolen devices or prevent them from being activated.

Why it matters: IMEI tracking adds a serious layer of protection when your phone is lost or stolen—especially in a foreign country where replacing your device isn’t easy.

Can You Change or Fake an IMEI Number?

Technically? Some try. But legally? Absolutely not.

Changing or tampering with an IMEI number is illegal in many countries—including the U.S., UK, and across Europe. Here's why:

• It’s a fraud: IMEI numbers exist to prevent stolen phones from being reused or sold. Changing it is like filing off a serial number from stolen property.
• Legal Consequences: If you're caught using a phone with a fake IMEI, you could face fines, confiscation, or worse—criminal charges.
• Device Issues: Even if altered, phones with fake IMEIs often won’t work properly on networks. You may lose access to essential services, including emergency calls.

Bottom Line: If someone offers to "unlock" or "fix" your IMEI, walk away. It's not worth the legal or safety risks.

IMEI vs. Serial Number: What’s the Difference?

If you've ever checked your phone's info, you've probably seen both an IMEI number and a serial number—but they’re not the same.

• IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a 15-digit number used to identify your device on mobile networks. It’s how carriers know your phone is legit and how they block it if it’s lost or stolen.
• Serial Number is created by the manufacturer (like Apple or Samsung) and is used to identify your phone for warranty, repairs, or technical support.

Think of it like this:

• IMEI is for your network.
• Serial number is for your manufacturer.

Example: If you drop your phone in a taxi overseas and report it to your carrier, they’ll ask for your IMEI. But if your screen cracks and you visit an Apple Store? They’ll ask for your serial number.

Both numbers matter—but they serve different purposes.

What is IMEI Blacklisting?

Ever heard the term “blacklisted phone”? What does it really mean? Here’s the short version:

When a phone is lost, stolen, or reported as unpaid, the IMEI number gets added to a blacklist database used by carriers worldwide. Once blacklisted, the phone can’t connect to mobile networks—even if a new SIM card is inserted.

What happens to blacklisted phones?

• They lose all cellular service—no calls, texts, or mobile data.
• Can’t be activated with another SIM in most countries.
• Might still work on Wi-Fi, but no mobile connectivity.

How to check if a phone is blacklisted:

• Visit trusted IMEI checker websites like IMEI.info or your carrier’s own portal.
• Enter your 15-digit IMEI to see if it's clean or blocked.

Tip: Always check the IMEI before buying a used phone. A cheap deal could turn into a useless brick.

How IMEI Numbers Are Used for SIM Locking

Ever bought a phone that only works with one carrier? That’s SIM locking, and it’s done using your phone’s IMEI.

When you buy a phone through a carrier (like AT&T or T-Mobile), they lock it to their network by registering your IMEI number in their system. This means the phone won’t work with SIM cards from other providers unless it’s officially unlocked.

Why do carriers do this?

• To make sure you stick with their service for the full contract.
• It helps them recover the cost of discounted phones.

The downside?

• You can’t switch to a local SIM while travelling.
• Using eSIM services like Yaalo becomes limited unless your device is unlocked.

SIM locks are usually removed after your contract ends—or sooner if you pay off the phone in full.

How to Unlock a Phone Using an IMEI Number

Want to use your phone with any carrier—or enjoy global eSIM services like Yaalo? You’ll need to unlock your phone, and the process usually starts with your IMEI number.

Here’s how to do it, legally and safely:

Step 1: Check your IMEI

• Dial *#06# or find it in your phone settings under About Phone.

Step 2: Contact your carrier

• Most carriers will unlock your phone for free if you meet the conditions (like completing your contract or paying off the device).
• Provide your IMEI, and they’ll start the unlock process.

Step 3: Wait for confirmation

• Some unlocks happen instantly. Others may take a few days.
• Once done, you’ll be able to insert any SIM—or better yet, download an eSIM like Yaalo and travel freely.

What about third-party services?

If your carrier won’t unlock your phone, you can use trusted third-party IMEI unlock providers. But be careful—not all are legit. Avoid shady websites or anyone who promises an “instant unlock” without verification.

IMEI and eSIM: How They Are Connected

With the rise of eSIM technology, a question arises in mind: what role does the IMEI number play?

Even though eSIMs are digital and don’t need a physical chip, your IMEI is still key to activating and managing them. Here's how it works:

When you install an eSIM—whether it’s from Yaalo, Holafly, or another provider—the eSIM profile links directly to your phone’s IMEI number. This helps carriers verify your device and ensures the right plan is tied to the right phone.

Why it matters:

• You can’t activate an eSIM without a valid IMEI.
• Carriers use IMEI data to approve or deny eSIM downloads.
• If your phone is blacklisted, you won’t be able to use eSIM services—even if the plan is active.

Conclusion

So, even in this digital SIM world, your IMEI is still the gatekeeper. It guarantees security, compatibility, and device traceability across global networks.

Your IMEI number isn’t just a random code tucked away in your settings—it’s a powerful tool that protects your device, connects you to the right network, and helps you travel smart.

Being informed gives you more freedom. And in a world where devices are everything, your IMEI is your digital fingerprint—protect it and use it wisely. 

FAQs

Can someone track my phone with my IMEI number?

Yes, but not just anyone. Only authorised parties like law enforcement or your mobile carrier can track your device using IMEI. It’s not something a random person can do without access to secure systems.

How do I check if my IMEI is valid?

Dial *#06# to see your IMEI.

Use websites like imei.info to verify its status.

Your phone’s box and settings also list the IMEI—check for consistency.

Is it safe to share my IMEI number?

Generally, avoid sharing it publicly. While the number alone can’t hack your phone, it could be misused for fraud, like cloning your device’s identity. Only share your IMEI with trusted parties like your carrier or official support centres.