In Canada, buying a used phone can be a good way to save money because it can save you hundreds of dollars compared to buying a new one. However, this smart choice could quickly become annoying if the phone is later found to be lost, stolen, locked, or not working at all like it was supposed to. Because of this, it is very important to check the device's IMEI number and technical specs before making a purchase.
This blog post will show you, step-by-step, how to check a used phone's IMEI and specs so you can buy it safely and with confidence in Canada. These tips will help you avoid common problems whether you're shopping online or in a store near you.
What is an IMEI number, and why is it important?
The International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number is a 15-digit code that is unique to each cell phone. It's kind of like a digital fingerprint for your phone. This number helps police and phone companies find and block phones that have been lost, stolen, or put on a ban.
This is why it's important to check the IMEI:
- Stolen Phone Alert: If the IMEI of the phone is banned, it won't work on any Canadian network, which makes it almost useless.
- Network Compatibility: The IMEI can tell you which service the device is locked to.
- Check for Authenticity: You can find out if the phone is real or a fake.
How to Look Up a Used Phone's IMEI Number
You can find a phone's IMEI number in a number of ways, including:
1. Type in a Code
- To call, open the phone and type *#06#. The IMEI number should show up on the screen right away.
2. On Android, go to Settings and check
- Go to Settings > About Phone > Status on a phone. On an iPhone, go to Settings > General > About
3. Check the box or SIM tray
- The IMEI number is commonly written on the box or the SIM card tray.
To find out what's going on with the phone, you need to know its IMEI.
How to Verify the IMEI Number in Canada
You can use one of Canada's trustworthy internet tools for IMEI checking to make sure you don't buy a phone that is on a ban or that has been stolen.
1. Device Check Canada is run by the Canadian Wireless Telecommunications Association.
- Type in the IMEI code.
- It will let you know if the phone has been reported lost or stolen.
- For IMEI checks in Canada, this is the best place to go.
2. Tools to Check Your Carrier IMEI
- Some service providers, like Rogers, Bell, and Telus, have their own online IMEI chequers.
Important: No matter how good the deal is, don't buy the phone if the IMEI is on a list of banned numbers.
Checking the Specifications of the Phone: Do not believe what the seller says
A lot of the time, sellers will lie about or inflate the specs of a used phone. It's important to check the phone's specs twice before buying to make sure you're getting what you pay for.
Here's how to check the phone's specs:
1. Check how the phone is set up.
- For Android, go to Settings > About Phone
- Settings > General > About on an iPhone will show you information like the model number, storage size, battery health, and software version.
2. Check out databases online
Use a reliable website like
- GSMArena,
- PhoneArena, or
- Notebookcheck.net
Once you know the model number of the phone, such as SM-G991W for a Samsung Galaxy S21 in Canada.
You can compare the specs on these sites to the ones on the phone because they are very exact.
3. Check specs with apps
If you can test the phone before buying it, put these troubleshooting apps on it:
- CPU-Z or AIDA64 for Android
- Lirum Device Info for iPhones
With these apps, you can see your processor type, screen size, battery life, and RAM, among other things.
Extra Tips Before You Buy a Used Phone
Look for damage to the body
- Screen: Check to see if it's not broken or blurry.
- Battery: Check to see if it's swollen or drained too fast.
- Test the cams on both the front and back.
- Headphone jack and charging port Jack: Put these to the test with extras.
- Water Damage: Check the Liquid Contact Indicator (LCI) inside the SIM hole of an iPhone for signs of water damage. Red means there is water damage.
Check to see if there is an activation lock
Make sure that the person who owned the phone before you deleted their iCloud or Google account. You won't be able to fully use the phone if you don't.
Also ensure:
- On an iPhone, go to Settings > > Sign Out.
- For Android, go to Settings > Accounts > Remove Account.
Where in Canada You Can Buy a Used Phone without Risk
Even though markets like Kijiji, Facebook Marketplace, and eBay have great deals, they also have risks, especially if you meet a seller you don't know.
This is why you should trust a pro: Here comes Dr. Phone Fix.
Support from a professional is the best way to buy, fix, or check a used phone. Dr. Phone Fix can help as they are a well-known brand in Canada for fixing phones and selling used ones.
This is why Dr Phone Fix is the best place for you:
- Sells fully restored and used phones with a guarantee.
- Verifies the IMEI number and checks the specs of every device.
- Repair, open, and analysis services are available.
- There are experts who can help you choose the best phone for your wants and cash.
- Across Canada, with service centres that are easy to get to.
Dr Phone Fix protects your investment whether you're selling your old phone, fixing your broken screen, or looking to buy a used phone with confidence.
Last Thoughts
It's not always dangerous to buy a used phone in Canada as long as you know what to look for and where to look for it. By checking the gadget specs and the IMEI number, you can be sure you're getting exactly what you paid for, with no unpleasant shocks.
Don't risk your money on internet deals that you're not sure about. Get skilled help from people you can trust.
You can look at their selection of checked, low-cost, and high-quality used devices at Dr Phone Fix, or you can have qualified experts look over and fix your current phone.
