Introduction
Losing your smartphone can feel like losing a part of yourself—your photos, your messages, your work… everything. But when it happens, one of the most important pieces of information you’ll need is your phone’s IMEI number. Wondering why? Because the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is your phone’s unique identity, and it can help track, block, or report your lost device.
So if you’re thinking, “I’ve lost my phone, how can I find the IMEI now?”, don’t panic. We’ve got you covered with this complete guide on “How to Find IMEI Number of Lost Phone.”
Let’s dive into all the ways to recover your IMEI—even if your phone is long gone.
What Is an IMEI Number?
IMEI Explained
IMEI stands for International Mobile Equipment Identity, and it’s a 15-digit number unique to your mobile device. Think of it as your phone’s fingerprint. No two phones share the same IMEI, which makes it incredibly helpful in tracking and identifying devices.
Why You Need the IMEI for a Lost Phone
Top Reasons:
- To report the phone stolen to your mobile carrier or police
- To block the device from being used by anyone else
- To track the phone using various third-party services or through your network provider
So yes, even though the phone is gone, your IMEI number could be the key to getting it back—or at least making sure nobody else can use it.
How to Find IMEI Number of Lost Phone
Let’s go step-by-step through different ways to locate the IMEI of a phone you’ve lost.
1. Check the Original Phone Box or Receipt
Look Here First
The original packaging of your phone (if you still have it) usually has the IMEI printed:
- On the barcode sticker on the box
- On your purchase receipt
- Sometimes on the warranty card
💡 Pro Tip: If you bought the phone online, check your email receipts or order history. Retailers like Amazon and Daraz often list the IMEI.
2. Use Your Google Account (Android Only)
Access IMEI via Google Dashboard
If your lost phone was an Android, here’s what you can do:
- Go to Google Find My Device
- Log in with the Google account linked to your phone
- Click the info icon (ℹ️) next to the device name
- The IMEI should be listed there
✅ This method works even if the device is turned off!
3. Use iCloud (for iPhones)
Find IMEI from Apple ID
If you’re using an iPhone:
- Go to Apple ID website
- Log in with your Apple ID
- Scroll to “Devices”
- Click on your lost device
- The IMEI number will be listed under details
4. Check Carrier or Network Provider Records
Most mobile network providers log your device’s IMEI when you insert their SIM card.
- Call or visit your carrier’s customer service
- Provide your ID and mobile number
- Ask if they can retrieve the IMEI
5. Check Old Backups or Sync Tools
If you’ve ever used PC software like Samsung Kies, iTunes, or other sync tools, your phone’s IMEI may have been saved automatically during a backup.
- Open the tool
- Look under device information
- You might just spot that precious 15-digit code
6. Ask Your Repair Guy (If Applicable)
Had your phone repaired in the past?
- Phone repair shops often note the IMEI
- Check if they kept a service record
- It’s a long shot—but sometimes it works!
7. IMEI Printed on Old Phone Bills
Still have old printed bills or invoices from your telecom provider?
- Flip through your bills
- Look for details about your device
- The IMEI might be listed there
What to Do Once You Have the IMEI?
Report the Loss Immediately
Here’s how to use the IMEI after recovering it:
- Block the IMEI: Contact PTA (for Pakistan) or your country’s regulatory authority
- Register Complaint: File an FIR with local police and provide the IMEI
- Alert Network Provider: Ask them to suspend services and blacklist the device
- Use Online Portals: Platforms like DIRBS PTA let you block the IMEI
Tips to Always Keep Your IMEI Safe
Even if your phone isn’t lost, always:
- Note down your IMEI in a safe place
- Email it to yourself for quick access
- Use apps like Google Keep or Notion to store it
How to Find IMEI on a Phone You Still Have?
If you’re just being proactive:
- Dial
*#06#on your phone’s dial pad — IMEI will pop up - Check under Settings > About Phone > IMEI
- Look at the back of the phone or SIM tray
Common Myths About IMEI and Lost Phones
❌ “IMEI can help me track my phone directly”
- IMEI alone can’t track location, but it helps authorities and networks do so
❌ “I don’t need IMEI, I’ll just get a new phone”
- You must block the IMEI to prevent misuse, even if you replace the device
❌ “All phones have 1 IMEI”
- Dual SIM phones usually have 2 IMEIs
Conclusion
Losing a phone is stressful, but your IMEI number is like a digital fingerprint that can help lock things down. If you’ve ever wondered, “Remember it Should be Unique 100%: How to Find IMEI Number of Lost Phone?”, now you know there are multiple ways to retrieve it—box, Google, Apple ID, carrier, and more.
So don’t give up yet. You may still have a shot at blocking, finding, or reporting that lost device. And for the future—save that IMEI somewhere safe before it’s too late!
FAQs
1. Can I track my lost phone with the IMEI?
Not directly. But network providers and police can use it to trace or block the device.
2. What if my IMEI is not listed anywhere?
Check Google/Apple accounts, receipts, and contact your network provider.
3. How many IMEIs do dual-SIM phones have?
Two—one for each SIM slot.
4. Can someone use my lost phone with a new SIM?
Yes, unless you report and block the IMEI.
5. Can the IMEI be changed?
Illegally, yes. But it’s a crime and also traceable in many countries.