
04 Mar How To: Finding Your Device’s IMEI Number
What Is An IMEI?
Many of you are probably wondering what an IMEI number actually is.
IMEI stands for International Mobile Station Equipment Identity and it is simply a unique 15 digit number given to all mobile phones and tablets. Also sometimes referred to as an Electronic Serial Number or an MEID, an IMEI number allows us to identify one phone from another. It’s a little bit like a serial number on a bank note or the VIN on a car.
Why Do We Need It?
Apart from being able to tell the difference between your device and another, your IMEI will help you protect your mobile device if (heaven forbid!) it is ever stolen or lost.
If the worst has happened and you’ve dropped your mobile in a cab or you were pick-pocketed while travelling, your IMEI will help you blacklist the device so that potential thieves cannot use it. Even if they replace the SIM card. It’s easy enough do, simply call your service provider, give them your IMEI and they will take care of the rest.
While this does not seem particularly helpful for phone owners in the short term, the introduction of IMEI blacklisting has helped reduce the incidents of mobile phone and tablet theft in several countries. Also, if you’re filing a police report, most will ask you to include your IMEI. That way, if the device is found it can be identified and returned to you. So it’s extremely important that you keep a record of your IMEI number and file it somewhere safe! It could help you retrieve your AWOL mobile or tablet.