How to check if a phone is stolen before you buy it
Updated November 3, 2026
When a phone is reported lost or stolen, carriers can add its IMEI to a shared list so it can't be used on their networks. If you buy a phone that's on that list, it may not work for calls or data, and it could be taken back as stolen property.
Check the IMEI
Ask the seller for the IMEI (dial *#06# on the phone). CTIA, the US wireless industry group, runs a free Stolen Phone Checker that uses GSMA Device Check. It's for US consumers and limited to a few free checks a day.
If the result says the phone is reported lost or stolen, don't buy it.
A clean result isn't the whole story
A phone that's never been reported can still be a bad buy. It can be:
- Locked to the last owner's iCloud (Find My), so you can't set it up as yours.
- Locked to one carrier.
- Locked by a Samsung lender through Knox Guard because it isn't paid off.
- Reported later, after you've paid. Results reflect the day you check.
Red flags
- The seller won't share the IMEI, or the IMEI on the phone (*#06#) doesn't match.
- They can't open the phone with its passcode, or won't sign out of iCloud or Google in front of you.
- No box, no receipt, and a price far below similar listings.
- Pressure to pay fast, or to pay before you see the phone.
Check the phone before you pay
One $1.99 report checks the lost/stolen list, iCloud (Find My), carrier lock and Samsung Knox Guard, with one plain answer. No account needed.
Check a phone for $1.99See a sample report