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How do I know if the phone I bought is blacklisted?
To check whether a device is blacklisted, you will need to find the IMEI number to access the database. There are several simple ways to do this: Dial *#06# on your phone and the IMEI number will appear automatically on-screen. If you can, check under your phone’s battery.
Can you activate a blacklisted iPhone?
If you check your device as mentioned above only to discover that your iPhone has been blacklisted, you can still unlock your phone, regardless of the carrier you use. Most people who discover that they possess blacklisted devices choose to contact their carrier, as it’s absolutely free.
How long does it take for a phone to be blacklisted?
Stolen phones may be blacklisted up to 30 days after the event. Phones used in fraudulent activity may be blacklisted up to 120 days after the event as this activity may take longer to detect.
Can I use Whatsapp on a blacklisted phone?
No, no apps can be run on blacklisted iPhones.
How do I buy a phone that is not blacklisted?
If you are buying a used phone, you should call the wireless carrier to verify the IMEI. This will make you aware of any blacklist issue the phone might have. You can then decide if you still want to proceed with the transaction or not. One of the safest ways of getting a phone that is not blacklisted is to purchase through a carrier.
How do I change the IMEI number on a blacklisted phone?
A carrier generally blacklists the unique identifier attached to the phone — or the IMEI and the serial number — and there’s no changing that identifier, unfortunately. Blacklisting is a term that’s used with GSM carriers. These are carriers like AT, T-Mobile, and their subsidiaries.
Why can’t I make phone calls on my stolen iPhone?
If the phone is locked to another carrier or if it’s lost or stolen your service provider can use the IMEI to “blacklist” a device which means you won’t be able to make calls. So for example, it’s the IMEI, and not your customer profile that lets a large carrier such as AT know that you are using an iPhone.
Can third-party services unlock your iPhone?
They can unlock the phone remotely. All you need to do is to provide them with the phone’s IMEI number. The device will be permanently unlocked and can no longer be put in the blacklist again. Here are the iPhone models that third-party services can unlock: