An IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number is a unique 15-digit code assigned to every mobile device. It serves as a digital fingerprint, identifying your specific device to cellular networks and service providers. This number is hardcoded into the device during manufacturing and is typically unchangeable.
The IMEI number plays a crucial role in the functioning of your mobile device. It allows network operators to identify and authenticate your device, ensuring proper connectivity and access to services. Additionally, IMEI numbers are used by law enforcement agencies and manufacturers to track lost or stolen devices, as well as to blacklist devices reported as stolen, preventing their usage on cellular networks.
There are several reasons why someone might want to change their IMEI number. One common scenario is when a device has been blacklisted due to being reported as lost or stolen. In such cases, changing the IMEI number could potentially allow the device to be used on cellular networks again. However, it’s important to note that this practice is generally considered illegal and can have serious consequences.
Another reason could be privacy concerns, where individuals may want to change their IMEI number to avoid being tracked or monitored by certain entities. Additionally, some users may attempt to change their IMEI number due to technical issues or compatibility problems with their device or network.
Table of Contents
What is an IMEI Number?
An IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number is a unique 15-digit code assigned to every mobile device. It acts as a fingerprint, identifying each individual phone or tablet. The IMEI number serves two primary purposes:
- Device Identification: The IMEI number allows network providers to identify and authenticate your specific device when it connects to their network. This helps prevent unauthorized access and ensures proper billing.
- Tracking and Blocking: If a device is reported as lost or stolen, the IMEI number can be blacklisted, preventing it from connecting to any cellular network. This helps deter theft and allows law enforcement agencies to track and recover stolen devices.
How to Find Your IMEI Number on Android:
There are a few ways to find your IMEI number on an Android device:
- Dial *#06#: This will display your IMEI number on the screen.
- Check Settings > About Phone/Device > Status: The IMEI number will be listed here.
- Remove the back cover and battery: The IMEI number is usually printed on the inside of the device.
How to Find Your IMEI Number on iPhone:
- Go to Settings > General > About: Your IMEI number will be listed under the “IMEI” section.
- Dial *#06#: This will display your IMEI number on the screen.
- Check the SIM tray or the original iPhone box: The IMEI number is often printed on these locations.
Knowing your IMEI number is crucial, as it serves as a unique identifier for your device and plays a vital role in security and device management.
Can an IMEI Number Be Changed?
The short answer is yes, it is technically possible to change the IMEI number on both Android and iPhone devices. However, it’s important to understand that altering the IMEI code is generally considered illegal and carries significant risks.
Technical Feasibility
From a technical standpoint, the IMEI number is stored in the device’s firmware and can be modified using specialized software tools and methods. On Android devices, this typically involves rooting the device and using applications like Xposed Installer, MobileUncle Tools, or accessing the MTK Engineering Mode. For iPhones, the process requires jailbreaking the device and using IMEI generator tools or other third-party software.
It’s worth noting that changing the IMEI number is a complex process that requires a certain level of technical expertise and carries the risk of bricking or permanently damaging the device if not done correctly.
Legal Considerations
In most countries, changing the IMEI number is considered illegal and can result in severe legal consequences. The IMEI number is a unique identifier assigned to every mobile device, and altering it is often associated with activities such as phone theft, fraud, or other criminal activities.
Law enforcement agencies and mobile network operators use the IMEI number to track and blacklist stolen or lost devices. By changing the IMEI number, individuals may attempt to bypass these security measures, which is a punishable offense in many jurisdictions.
Risks Involved
Apart from the legal implications, changing the IMEI number can also pose various risks to the user and their device. Some of the potential risks include:
- Device Blacklisting: If the new IMEI number is already registered as a blacklisted or stolen device, the user may face issues with network connectivity or even have their device remotely disabled.
- Data Loss: The process of changing the IMEI number often requires resetting the device to factory settings, which can result in the loss of personal data, settings, and installed applications.
- Security Vulnerabilities: Using third-party software or unauthorized methods to modify the IMEI number can introduce security vulnerabilities, leaving the device susceptible to malware, viruses, or other cyber threats.
- Warranty Void: Altering the IMEI number may void the device’s warranty, as it is considered a modification to the hardware or firmware, which can lead to issues with repair or replacement services.
It’s crucial to understand that changing the IMEI number should only be considered in exceptional circumstances, such as privacy concerns or technical issues, and even then, it should be done through legitimate and authorized channels, if available.
How to Change IMEI Number on Android
Changing the IMEI number on an Android device is a complex process that requires rooting your phone and using specialized software tools. It’s important to note that this process carries significant risks and should only be attempted if you have a legitimate reason and understand the potential consequences.
Prerequisites
Rooting:
Before you can change the IMEI number, you’ll need to root your Android device. Rooting gives you administrative access to the system files and allows you to make low-level modifications. The rooting process varies depending on your device’s model and Android version, so you’ll need to research the specific steps for your phone.
Software Tools:
You’ll need to download and install several software tools to change the IMEI number. These include:
- Xposed Installer: A framework that allows you to modify the system files and behavior of your Android device.
- MobileUncle Tools: A suite of tools that includes an IMEI changer for Android devices.
- MTK Engineering Mode: A hidden menu on some Android devices that provides access to low-level settings, including the ability to change the IMEI number.
Step-by-Step Guide
Using Xposed Installer and MobileUncle Tools
- Install the Xposed Installer on your rooted Android device.
- Download and install the MobileUncle Tools module from the Xposed Installer repository.
- Open the MobileUncle Tools app and navigate to the IMEI Changer section.
- Enter the new IMEI number you want to set for your device.
- Tap the “Change IMEI” button to apply the new IMEI number.
Using MTK Engineering Mode
- Enable USB debugging on your Android device.
- Connect your device to a computer and launch the MTK Engineering Mode tool.
- Navigate to the IMEI section within the tool.
- Enter the new IMEI number you want to set for your device.
- Apply the changes, and your device’s IMEI number will be updated.
Safety Tips and Precautions
- Back up your data before attempting to change the IMEI number, as the process can potentially cause data loss or brick your device.
- Use reliable and reputable software tools from trusted sources to minimize the risk of introducing malware or other security vulnerabilities.
- Be aware that changing the IMEI number may void your device’s warranty and could potentially lead to legal consequences if done for illegitimate reasons.
- Proceed with caution and at your own risk, as improper handling of the IMEI number can render your device unusable or even illegal to use.
How to Change IMEI Number on iPhone
Changing the IMEI number on an iPhone is a more complicated process compared to Android devices, as Apple’s iOS is a closed-source operating system with strict security measures in place. However, it is still possible to change the IMEI number on an iPhone, but it requires jailbreaking the device first.
Prerequisites
- Jailbreaking: Jailbreaking is the process of removing software restrictions imposed by Apple on iOS devices. This allows you to gain root access and install unauthorized software and modifications. Jailbreaking is a legal gray area and can potentially void your device’s warranty, so proceed at your own risk.
- Software Tools: You’ll need specialized software tools like the Apple IMEI generator, which is a third-party tool designed specifically for changing the IMEI number on iPhones.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Jailbreak Your iPhone: The first step is to jailbreak your iPhone using a trusted jailbreak tool like unc0ver or Checkra1n. The process varies depending on your iOS version and device model, so follow the instructions carefully.
- Install Apple IMEI Generator: After successfully jailbreaking your iPhone, you can install the Apple IMEI generator tool from a third-party repository like Cydia or Sileo.
- Generate a New IMEI Number: Open the Apple IMEI generator tool and follow the on-screen instructions to generate a new, unique IMEI number for your iPhone.
- Change the IMEI Number: The tool will provide you with the necessary steps to change your iPhone’s IMEI number to the newly generated one. This typically involves modifying system files and settings.
- Reboot Your Device: After the IMEI number has been changed, reboot your iPhone to ensure the changes take effect.
Safety Tips and Precautions
- Create a Backup: Before proceeding with any modifications, create a full backup of your iPhone using iTunes or iCloud. This will allow you to restore your device if anything goes wrong.
- Use Trusted Tools: Only use trusted and reputable tools for jailbreaking and changing the IMEI number. Malicious software can compromise your device’s security and data.
- Understand the Risks: Changing the IMEI number on an iPhone can potentially brick your device or cause other issues if not done correctly. Proceed with caution and at your own risk.
- Legal Implications: Changing the IMEI number may be illegal in some countries or regions, especially if done with malicious intent. Make sure to check your local laws and regulations before proceeding.
Remember, while changing the IMEI number on an iPhone is possible, it is a complex process that requires technical expertise and carries potential risks. Proceed with caution and always prioritize the safety and security of your device.
Legality and Ethical Considerations
Changing the IMEI number on a mobile device is generally considered illegal in most countries around the world. This unique identifier is assigned by the manufacturer and is meant to be permanent, serving as a way to track and identify individual devices. Tampering with the IMEI number is often associated with nefarious activities, such as attempting to use a stolen or blacklisted device.
In the United States, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) have strict regulations regarding IMEI numbers. Intentionally altering or modifying an IMEI number is a violation of federal law and can result in fines or even imprisonment, depending on the circumstances.
Similarly, in the European Union, changing an IMEI number is illegal under the Radio Equipment Directive (RED) and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Violations can lead to hefty fines and potential criminal charges.
While the specific laws and penalties may vary across different countries, the general consensus is that modifying an IMEI number without proper authorization is an illegal act. Law enforcement agencies and mobile network operators take IMEI tampering seriously, as it can facilitate criminal activities such as phone theft, fraud, and other forms of misuse.
From an ethical standpoint, changing an IMEI number raises significant concerns. It undermines the integrity of the device identification system, which is in place to protect consumers and ensure the proper functioning of mobile networks. Additionally, it can enable the use of stolen or illegally obtained devices, contributing to the proliferation of criminal activities.
Furthermore, altering an IMEI number without a legitimate reason, such as privacy concerns or technical issues, is generally considered unethical. It can be seen as a form of deception, as the device’s true identity is being concealed or misrepresented.
Potential consequences of changing an IMEI number can be severe, ranging from legal penalties to service disruptions. Mobile network operators may blacklist or block devices with modified IMEI numbers, rendering them unusable on their networks. Additionally, if caught, individuals may face fines, confiscation of their devices, and even criminal charges, depending on the jurisdiction and the circumstances surrounding the IMEI modification.
It is crucial to understand and respect the laws and regulations surrounding IMEI numbers, as well as the ethical implications of tampering with this unique identifier. While there may be rare exceptions where changing an IMEI number is deemed necessary and legal, such as in cases of privacy concerns or technical issues, it should always be approached with caution and proper authorization.
FAQs – How to Change IMEI Number
Does IMEI change with SIM card?
No, the IMEI number is hardcoded into the device and does not change when you swap SIM cards. The IMEI is unique to each individual phone and remains the same regardless of the SIM card inserted.
Does IMEI number change after factory reset?
No, performing a factory reset on your device does not change the IMEI number. The IMEI is tied to the hardware itself and cannot be altered through software resets or updates.
What to do if your phone is blacklisted?
If your phone has been blacklisted by your carrier or law enforcement due to it being lost, stolen, or associated with illegal activities, changing the IMEI number will not resolve the issue. Blacklisting is done at the network level, and the device will remain blacklisted regardless of the IMEI number. In such cases, your best course of action is to contact the relevant authorities and provide proof of ownership or report the device as stolen.
Conclusion
Changing your IMEI number is a complex process that requires technical know-how and carries significant risks. Throughout this guide, we’ve explored the various methods to change the IMEI on both Android and iOS devices, highlighting the prerequisites, step-by-step instructions, and safety precautions.
It’s crucial to understand that altering the IMEI number is generally considered illegal in most countries, as it can facilitate the use of stolen or blacklisted devices. The legal and ethical implications of this practice should not be taken lightly, as there can be severe consequences, including fines or even imprisonment.
While there may be legitimate reasons for changing your IMEI number, such as privacy concerns or technical issues, it’s essential to weigh the risks carefully. Tampering with your device’s unique identifier can lead to compatibility issues, data loss, and potential security vulnerabilities.
Ultimately, the decision to change your IMEI number rests with you, but we strongly encourage you to follow legal guidelines and seek professional assistance if necessary. Remember, your device’s integrity and your personal safety should always be the top priorities.
If you have any further questions or concerns, we recommend consulting with a trusted technician or seeking advice from reputable online forums and communities. Stay informed, stay safe, and always prioritize ethical and legal practices when it comes to modifying your devices.
Call to Action
If you found this guide helpful and informative, we encourage you to subscribe to our newsletter to receive more tech tips, tutorials, and updates straight to your inbox. By subscribing, you’ll stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in the world of technology, ensuring you never miss out on valuable information.
Additionally, if you believe this article could benefit others who are curious about changing their IMEI number or exploring the technical aspects of their devices, we kindly ask you to share it on your social media platforms. Sharing valuable content not only helps us reach a wider audience but also contributes to the spread of knowledge and awareness within the tech community.
I’m a writer, artist, and designer working in the gaming and tech industries. I have held staff and freelance positions at large publications including Digital Trends, Lifehacker, Popular Science Magazine, Electronic Gaming Monthly, IGN, The Xplore Tech, and others, primarily covering gaming criticism, A/V and mobile tech reviews, and data security advocacy.