What an IMEI code is and why you need it

Your IMEI code is a 15-digit number that uniquely identifies your phone or tablet to cellular networks. Think of it like a serial number for your device on the carrier's system. Every phone has one, whether it's an iPhone, Android device, or older model.

You need this number when reporting a phone as lost or stolen, unlocking a device from one carrier to use on another, checking if a used phone is blacklisted, or troubleshooting network problems with your carrier. Some carriers also use it to verify your device during account changes or warranty claims.

The IMEI is different from your phone number or SIM card number — it stays with the physical device itself, even if you switch carriers or remove the SIM card.

Key Takeaways

  • You can find your IMEI by dialing *#06# on any phone, which works on nearly all devices regardless of carrier or operating system.
  • On iPhones, go to Settings > General > About and scroll to find the IMEI listed as "IMEI".
  • On Android phones, open Settings > About Phone and look for "IMEI" or "IMEI 1" and "IMEI 2" if your phone has two SIM slots.
  • Your IMEI also appears on the original box your phone came in, on your carrier's account page, and on the physical device under the battery on older phones.
  • Write down your IMEI and store it somewhere safe in case you need it for a lost phone report or carrier issue.

The fastest way: dial the IMEI code

The quickest method works on almost every phone ever made. Open your phone's dialer (the app you use to make calls) and type *#06#, then press the call button. Your IMEI will appear on the screen when ready — you do not need to actually place a call.

This method works whether your phone is locked, whether you have a SIM card in it, and whether you are on WiFi or cellular. It works on iPhones, Android devices, and older phones. Write down the 15-digit number that appears, or take a screenshot.

If you have a phone with two SIM card slots, you may see two IMEI numbers listed as IMEI 1 and IMEI 2. Each SIM slot has its own IMEI.

Finding your IMEI on iPhone

Open the Settings app and tap General. Scroll down and tap About. Look for the line labeled IMEI — the 15-digit number next to it is your code. You can tap and hold to copy it, or take a screenshot.

If you no longer have the phone but remember your Apple ID, you can also find the IMEI on iCloud.com. Sign in with your Apple ID, go to Find My, select the device, and scroll down to see its IMEI listed under device details.

Finding your IMEI on Android

Open the Settings app and scroll to the bottom, then tap About Phone. Look for IMEI or IMEI 1 — the 15-digit number listed there is what you need. If your phone has two SIM slots, you will also see IMEI 2 for the second slot.

On some Android phones, the About section is organized differently. If you do not see IMEI when ready, look for a section called Device Information or Status. The IMEI will be listed in one of these areas.

If you cannot find it in Settings, the dial method (*#06#) will always work on Android devices.

Other places your IMEI appears

Your IMEI is printed on several documents and places you may already have. Check the original box your phone came in — the IMEI is usually printed on a label on the back or inside. Your carrier's website also shows your IMEI under your account details; log in and look for device information or account settings.

On older phones with removable batteries, the IMEI is sometimes printed on a label under the battery. If your phone is still under warranty, your warranty paperwork may list it as well.

If you are trying to find the IMEI of a phone you no longer have, contact your carrier with your account information and they can look it up for you.

What to do with your IMEI once you have it

Write your IMEI down and store it somewhere safe — a notes app, a document, or a physical piece of paper in a drawer. If your phone is lost or stolen, you can give this number to your carrier and police, and the carrier can block the device from connecting to their network even if someone else tries to use it.

If you are buying a used phone, you can use the IMEI to check whether it has been reported as lost or stolen. Some carriers offer online tools where you enter the IMEI and it tells you whether the device is blacklisted. Ask the seller for the IMEI before you buy, and verify it with the carrier.

Keep your IMEI separate from your phone — if your phone is lost, you will not have access to it, so a backup copy is essential.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone use my IMEI to steal my phone or identity?

Your IMEI alone cannot be used to steal your phone or access your accounts — it is not a password or security code. However, if someone has your IMEI and your phone, they could potentially unlock it from your carrier. Keep your IMEI private in the same way you would keep a serial number private, but do not panic if someone sees it.

What if the *#06# code does not work on my phone?

This code works on nearly all phones, but if it does not work on yours, use the Settings method for your phone type instead. If Settings does not show an IMEI either, contact your carrier — they can look it up using your account information.

Do I need both IMEI 1 and IMEI 2 if my phone has two SIM slots?

It depends on what you need it for. If you are reporting the phone as lost or stolen, give your carrier both numbers so they can block both SIM slots. If you are unlocking the phone, your carrier will tell you which IMEI they need.

Can I change my IMEI code?

No, your IMEI is hardcoded into your phone's hardware and cannot be changed through normal settings. Attempting to change it is illegal in most countries and will void your warranty.

Is my IMEI the same as my serial number?

No, they are different. Your serial number is another unique identifier printed on your device and box, but it is not the same as your IMEI. Your carrier uses the IMEI to identify your phone on their network.