It can be a big problem if you lost your device. But thankfully, an IMEI tracker can help you find it quickly. Every phone has a special 15-digit IMEI, which is like an ID for your device. This guide will explain how to use this number to track your phone, find trustworthy tools, and get your phone back safely.
There are many tools available to help you track your phone using the IMEI number. This number cannot be changed or deleted, so even if someone removes the SIM card or battery, the IMEI number tracker will still be there, allowing you to trace the phone.
Let’s take a look at how to track phone with IMEI number to find your lost phone. Here is how to find phone by IMEI number using IMEI tracker.
If your phone is stolen, you can check this article: What To Do When Phone Is Stolen- Steps To Help You Out
What Is IMEI Number?
The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number is a unique 15-digit code given to each mobile phone. It’s like a digital fingerprint. It helps manufacturers identify phones, and mobile networks like Jio or Airtel use it to track (IMEI Number Tracker) or block lost phones.
If your phone is stolen, the IMEI number can help you report it, block the phone, or help the authorities find it. Unlike a SIM card, which can be changed, the IMEI tracker stays with the phone.
Where Can You Find The IMEI Number?
It’s easy to find your IMEI number Tracker. Here’s where you can look:
- On the Phone: Check the back panel, under the battery (for older models), or the SIM tray (for iPhones).
- Via Dialer: Open your phone app, dial *#06#, and the IMEI will appear.
- In Settings: On Android, go to Settings > About Phone; on iPhone, go to Settings > General > About.
- On the Box: Check the original packaging or invoice.
Tip: Write it down and keep it in a safe place in can you want to use the IMEI Tracker, don’t wait until your phone is lost!
Also read: How To Use Remote Mouse App With Windows/Mac Computer
How To Find IMEI Number Tracker (Android & iPhone) To Track Phone?
Before you use an IMEI tracker to locate your lost phone, you must know its IMEI number. It’s important to note down your smartphone’s IMEI number and keep it handy in case your device gets lost.
Do note that each SIM has its own IMEI number, so dual-SIM phones will have two IMEI numbers instead of one. Here are the steps for both Android and iOS devices.
How To Find IMEI Number On Android?
Here are all the different ways that you can find the IMEI number on your Android device and use it in a IMEI tracker. By following these steps you can went on to find phone by IMEI number.
Method 1: Using Phone’s Dialer
The first method is using the dialer app on your smartphone to find the IMEI number tracker on Android:
- Open the Dialer app on your Android phone
- Dial *#06#
- A pop-up message will display the IMEI details of your smartphone.
- In case the message doesn’t appear, press the dial button.
Method 2: From Device Settings
Another way to check the IMEI tracker number on your Android phone is through the device settings. Follow these steps:
- Open Settings on your Android phone.
- Scroll Down and tap the About Phone section
- At the bottom of this section, you will find the IMEI number.
Method 3: On The Back Of Your Phone
The third method to locate your IMEI number is through the sticker on the back of your phone. Many smartphones have a white sticker that mentions the IMEI number. Generally, most users remove this sticker as soon they unbox their phone. You can if your’s is still at the back of your phone.
Method 4: Check The Box Of Your Device
If the back of your phone does not have a sticker, you can check the device for the IMEI number. This number is located on the back of the phone’s box, along with other details, such as the SAR value.
I hope you can now find phone by IMEI Tracker number.
How To Find IMEI Number Tracker On iPhone?
You can find the IMEI number on your iPhone for IMEI tracker is by following these methods.
Method 1: Using Dialer On Your iPhone
You can find the IMEI number on your iPhone by following these steps:
- Open the Phone app on your iPhone and Dial *#06#
- A pop-up message will display details about your IMEI number
- You must press the dial button if the number does not appear.
Method 2: From the Settings
To find your IMEI Number on your iPhone via Settings, you need to do this:
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone
- Tap on General and then select the About option.
- Here, you will find details such as the IMEI/MEID/ICCID apart from other details
Method 3: Before Setting Up The Device
In case you haven’t set up your new iPhone or have performed a reset of your device, then you follow these steps for IMEI Tracker:
- Boot your iPhone by pressing the power button.
- A “Hello” message will appear on your screen.
- Press the Info button denoted by the “i” icon in the bottom right corner.
- The serial number will be visible on your screen
Method 4: Via SIM Tray
You can still check your IMEI number if you are lucky enough to have a physical SIM Tray instead of an e-SIM one. Open the SIM Tray using the SIM Ejector PIN. You will be able to check your IMEI number.
Method 5: Using iTunes
You can also find your iPhone’s IMEI number using iTunes. Just follow these simple steps:
- Connect your iPhone to your computer with a USB or lightning cable.
- Open iTunes if you’re using macOS Mojave or a Windows PC. If you have macOS Catalina 10.15 or later, open Finder.
- In iTunes or Finder, go to the Summary tab.
- Under your device’s name or model, click on Phone Number to see your IMEI number.
Method 6: Using your Apple ID
Last but not least, you can find the IMEI number of your iPhone by visiting the Apple ID page. This method works even if you don’t have your device with you. To check your IMEI using Apple ID, follow these steps:
- Go to this link to Manage Apple Account.
- Log in with the same Apple ID that you have used on your iPhone
- In the devices section, select the device. You will be able to view its IMEI number.
Method 7: Using Your Mac
If you have a Mac, you can still find your iPhone’s IMEI number even if you can’t access the Settings or Control Centre. Here’s how:
- Connect your iPhone to your Mac with a cable.
- Open Finder (for macOS Catalina 10.15 or later). If you’re using an older macOS, open iTunes.
- Go to the General tab in Finder, then click on the Summary tab.
- Click on Phone Number under your device’s name. Your IMEI number will show up.
You can copy and paste this number into an IMEI tracker for future use.
Tracking a Lost Phone with IMEI Number Tracker: Step-by-Step
In India, the Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) system, launched on May 17, 2023, helps track and block lost phones using their IMEI numbers. Here’s how to use it:
- File a Police Report: Go to your local police station with your IMEI, phone bill, or box. Get a copy of the FIR (First Information Report).
- Contact Your Provider: Ask your mobile provider for a duplicate SIM and request them to flag your IMEI as lost.
- Visit the CEIR Portal: Go to ceir.gov.in, and upload your FIR, ID proof, and IMEI number.
- Verify OTP: Enter the OTP (One-Time Password) sent to your registered mobile number.
- Get Request ID: You’ll receive a Request ID to track the status of your request on ceir.gov.in (Pending, Processed, or Rejected).
What Happens Next?
Telecom operators will blacklist your IMEI, disabling your phone on all networks, even with a new SIM. The process may take from days to weeks, depending on the authorities.
Note on IMEI Number Tracker: The CEIR system is specific to India. For international cases, contact your carrier and local police.
Also read: How To Get Rid Of Ghost Touch On Android? Follow These Quick Fixes!
IMEI tracker – Check Status Of Complaints On Portal!
Here’s how you can check the status of your complaints for IMEI tracker:
- Submit Request: After submitting the blocking request, visit the CEIR homepage and click “Check Request Status.”
- Enter Request ID: Enter the unique request ID on the new page that appears.
- Check Status: View the status of your complaint (Pending, Processed, or Rejected). If processed, you’ll see the block date, time, and operator details.
Alternative Tracking Tools For IMEI Tracker
If IMEI tracking isn’t available, you can use these tools for faster, user-controlled tracking:
Google Find My Device (Android):
- Tracks your phone’s real-time location using GPS (if it’s online).
- Enable it in Settings > Google > Find My Device.
- Log in at android.com/find to locate, ring, or wipe your phone.
- Offline tracking works in crowded areas with Android 15’s network.
Find My iPhone (iOS):
- Pinpoints your iPhone’s location, even offline via nearby Apple devices (if enabled).
- Enable it in Settings > [Your Name] > Find My.
- Use icloud.com/find to lock, ring, or erase your phone remotely.
Samsung SmartThings Find (Samsung Users):
- Enable it in Settings > Samsung Account > Find My Mobile.
- Visit findmymobile.samsung.com to track or secure your device, even when offline.
Safety Tips: Using IMEI Trackers Wisely
There are many IMEI tracker apps and websites, but it’s important to stay cautious:
- Stick to Official Channels: Use trusted platforms like CEIR or reliable apps like mSpy.
- Avoid Unverified Sites: Never share your IMEI with untrustworthy websites. Scammers may misuse it for cloning or fraud.
- Don’t Pay Upfront: Legitimate phone recovery doesn’t require you to pay fees in advance, except through official channels.
- Check Reviews: If using third-party tools like Staunch IMEI Tracker, read user reviews first, and remember that success isn’t always guaranteed.
IMEI Tracker By Staunch
The IMEI Tracker by Staunch is a free website that can help you locate your lost phone. It can do that by finding your lost smartphone. It claims to offer you the exact location of your phone. This works in more than 150 countries.
These tools can be a great way to find the last position of your lost smartphone. It is worth noting that these services do not have a 100 per cent success rate. It depends on various factors. These include whether your phone has mobile data and GPS turned on or off.
Here is how you can find your phone with this IMEI tracker by Staunch:
- Visit the website and press the Track IMEI button.
- Enter the IMEI number of your smartphone that you can find using the steps mentioned above.
- Choose your country from the list and press the Track IMEI button.
What Are The Benefits of IMEI Tracker?
- Universal ID: The IMEI is unique to your phone, so it works even if you change the SIM card or turn off the GPS.
- Blocking Power: If your phone is stolen, IMEI tracking can block it, making it useless for thieves.
- Recovery Help: If your phone is lost or stolen, authorities can use IMEI tracking to help find it.
Also Read: How To Locate Your Lost AirPods Using Find my AirPods Feature
Additional Strategies and Tips For IMEI Tracker
You can always take steps to enhance your efforts of tracking a lost phone:
- The sooner you report the loss, the higher is the chances of successful recovery. Prompt action can prevent the thief from selling or resetting your device.
- It is a good idea to keep a note of the IMEI number. You should note it down in some safe place to save time and effort when reporting the loss of the phone.
- Always make sure that the built-in “Find my device” option given in your phone is enabled.
- Make sure to add two-factor authentication on bank accounts and social media accounts.
- You can also contact the device manufacturer for help. They may have specific tools or advice for locating your device. Especially if it is with manufacturer-specific tracking features.
Things To Do After Your Phone Is Lost Or Stolen: IMEI Tracker
Here are the tips that you must follow:
- Use Trusted Sources: Stick to official services like CEIR or trusted apps like mSpy.
- Avoid Unknown Websites: Don’t share your IMEI with untrusted sites to avoid scams.
- No Upfront Payments: Real phone recovery doesn’t ask for money upfront.
- Check Reviews: Look at reviews before using third-party apps like Staunch IMEI Tracker.
Tips To Protect Your Phone From Getting Stolen
As the saying goes, prevention is always better than cure. It’s best to protect your phone in the first place so it doesn’t get stolen. It’s important to note that these are only safeguards that you can follow.
So, you don’t need to rely on an IMEI tracker later. Without any further ado, let’s get started:
- Out of Sight: Keep your phone in your pocket or bag when not in use, especially in public places, to avoid theft.
- Keep Location On: Always enable location and mobile data for easier tracking if your phone gets stolen.
- Enable Find My Device: Turn on Find My iPhone or Find My Device to track, lock, or wipe your phone remotely.
- Get Phone Insurance: You can get insurance for expensive phones to help with recovery or repairs if stolen.
- Use Strong Security: Set a strong password, and use Fingerprint or FaceID for better protection.
- Note IMEI Number: Write down your IMEI number for tracking in case of theft.
- Stay Alert: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in public transport, to prevent snatching.
- Don’t Forget Your Phone: Never leave your phone unattended in public places or vehicles.
Android Settings To Prevent Your Phone From Getting Stolen
There are a few settings that you can enable to safeguard your phone and prevent it from getting stolen. Turning on these settings will increase the chances of getting it back via IMEI tracker. These are the toggles that you need to enable:
1.Require Password To Power Off:
By turning on this setting, every time you turn off or restart your phone, you will need to enter your PIN or password. To enable this setting do the following:
- Open the Settings App and go to the Security and Privacy section
- Tap on More Security and Privacy->Turn On Require Password To Power Off
2. Turn Off The Status Bar From The Lock Screen
Even if a thief manages to steal your phone, they won’t be able to put it in airplane mode or switch off mobile data. This is because the quick settings won’t be accessible from the lock screen. Here is how you can enable this setting:
Here’s the table summarizing the steps for different phone brands:
Phone Brand | Steps |
---|---|
Vivo/iQOO Phones | 1. Go to Settings > Privacy > LockScreen and Wallpaper > Lockscreen Setting 2. Turn off “Open Control Centre from the Lockscreen” |
Realme, OnePlus, Oppo Phones | 1. Open Settings > Notifications & Status Bar 2. Tap on Lock Screen notifications 3. Turn off “Swipe down on lock screen to view notification drawer” |
Motorola Phones | 1. Open Settings > Lock Network & Security 2. Search for Control Centre 3. Turn off “Allow Access To Quick Settings” |
Samsung Phones | 1. Open Settings > Lock Screen and AOD Section 2. Tap on Secure Lock Settings 3. Turn on “Lock Network & Security” |
Android 15 Theft Detection: A New Safety Feature – IMEI Tracker
Starting with Android 15, Google is adding new theft detection features. Let’s take a look at how each of these features will help you in case of theft:
Android 15 Theft Detection Features:
- Factory Reset Protection: Thieves can’t reset your phone without your Google account credentials, making IMEI number tracker unusable.
- Private Safe: Store sensitive apps in a private space protected by a hidden PIN.
- Extra Steps to Disable Find My Device: Disabling Find My Device requires authentication, ensuring you can still track your phone.
- Better Authentication: Even if stolen, the phone needs a PIN or passkey to access.
- AI-Powered Theft Protection: Detects theft motions and locks the phone automatically.
- Offline Device Lock: Locks the phone if it’s off the grid or shows signs of being stolen, like multiple failed login attempts.
- Remote Lock: Lock or wipe your phone remotely through Find My Device, and recover your Google account using your phone number.
Limitations of IMEI Tracker:
- No Direct Access: You can’t track your phone by yourself. Only carriers and the police can do it.
- Phone Must Be On: IMEI tracking only works if the phone is powered on and connected to a network. If the phone is off, it can’t be tracked.
- Scam Risk: Some third-party tracking tools might promise to help but often don’t deliver or are scams.
To Sum It Up – IMEI Tracker
While losing a phone can be a terrifying experience, using an IMEI tracker is the best way to retrieve it. By using IMEI number tracker, you can pinpoint its location. You can also contact authorities to help recover it.
It’s important to inform the relevant authorities. But, it’s also important to let your relatives know so your number does not get misused in any potential scam. If someone calls them then can help you in recovering your lost phone.
You can also rely on tools like Find My Device and Find My Phone to safeguard your device. Make sure to only use authorised websites. Do not reveal sensitive information like IMEI number on fake IMEI tracker websites.
The IMEI tracker feature is a powerful tool in the fight against mobile phone loss and theft. Remember, it’s not a mobile phone; it’s a house of your memories, work, and personal information. So, safeguard it and use every available resource to ensure its safe return in case it goes missing.
Also Read: How To Locate A Lost Or Stolen Android Smartphone
FAQs – How To Track Phone With IMEI Number
Q1. What is IMEI number tracker?
IMEI number tracker helps identify and track a mobile phone. It aids in finding lost or stolen phones by blocking the IMEI, making the device useless.
Q2. How to track phone with IMEI Tracker?
To track IMEI number, you need to file a police report. You can contact your service provider for a duplicate SIM card. Visit the CEIR portal to block the IMEI with the necessary documents. Law enforcement and operators will then locate your mobile to help you “find my device with IMEI”.
Q3. What are the benefits of knowing how to track phone with imei number?
Benefits include the ability to block the IMEI, and CEIR’s nationwide tracking. It’s crucial for recovery. Especially when the phone lacks an active internet connection.
Q4. What is CEIR, and how does it contribute to tracking IMEI numbers?
CEIR is a central database managed by the government of India that stores IMEI numbers. It tracks lost smartphones in collaboration with telecom operators. This is done even if the SIM card is replaced.
Q5. What should you do if you can’t find your lost phone using the IMEI number?
Report the loss to the police and give them the IMEI number for tracking. Contact your network provider to block the phone. If these don’t work, try using tracking apps that use GPS to find your phone. These steps can help you recover your lost or stolen phone.
Q6. What should you do if you find someone else’s lost phone?
If you find a lost phone, check for emergency contacts, personal items, or a case with a business card. If the phone is locked, contact the network provider using the IMEI number (found on the box or by dialing *#06#). They can help reach the owner and return the phone.
Q7. What Steps Can I Take To Secure My Device Before It Gets Lost Or Stolen?
To secure your device, enable remote tracking and locking features. These include Find My Device (Android) or Find My iPhone (iOS). You can also activate two-factor authentication. Remember to set a password to prevent someone from turning off your device. Write down your IMEI number for future tracking.
Q8. Can I track IMEI number using Google Earth?
No, it is not possible to use Google Earth as an IMEI tracker to find your lost mobile phone. Google Earth allows you to view 2D or 3D models of the earth and does not help you locate your lost phone.
Q9. Are IMEI Tracker Apps Fake?
No, most of the IMEI tracker apps are not fake, and many of the tools, like mSpy, Spokeo, and others, are reliable. Law enforcement and telecom operators even use some of these to find your device. Use a reliable IMEI tracker to prevent yourself from getting scammed.
Q10. Can Thieves Change My IMEI Number?
Yes, they can change your IMEI number, but this is very difficult and even illegal in most cases. If your IMEI number gets changed, then it is hard to track your device.
Q11. What is the Police IMEI Tracker?
Law enforcement agencies or Police have their own IMEI tracker that they use. They use it to track a lost or stolen mobile phone. They coordinate with telecom operators to find the device using special software.
Q12. How Can I Unblock My IMEI Number?
Once your phone is recovered, you can use it by unblocking its IMEI number. You will need to contact your telecom operator or authorities to unblock the device.
Q13. Is It Possible To Change IMEI Number?
No, changing the IMEI number is very difficult and illegal as per the law. It is a crime to tamper with the IMEI number of your device. It can conceal the owner’s identity and bypass blacklisted devices by authorities.
Did you know that refurbished mobile phones cost at least 50% less than new phones on Cashify? You also get other discounts, No-cost EMI and more, making it the most affordable way to buy a premium phone. So, what are you waiting for? Buy refurbished mobile phones at your nearest cashify store and avail exclusive offers.