Losing your phone can be stressful, especially when it contains important personal data, messages, and memories. Fortunately, you can track your lost phone using its IMEI number, a unique 15-digit code assigned to every mobile device.

The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number identifies your phone on any mobile network. Even if the SIM card is changed, the IMEI remains the same. This makes it an essential tool for blocking, tracing, or recovering stolen devices through your network provider or law enforcement.

How to Find Your IMEI Number

If you didn’t record your IMEI before losing your phone, you may still be able to retrieve it using one of the following methods:

Method 1: Dial Code (Before Losing the Phone)

• Open your dialer and type:
  *#06#
• Your IMEI number will appear instantly.

Method 2: Check Phone Settings

• Android: Go to Settings → About Phone → Status → IMEI
• iPhone: Go to Settings → General → About → IMEI

Method 3: Check Your Phone Box or Receipt

• The original packaging box or receipt usually has a sticker containing the IMEI number.

Method 4: Google Account (Android Users)

• Visit: https://www.google.com/settings
• Log in → Scroll to Find your phone → Select your device → View IMEI.

Method 5: Apple ID (iPhone Users)

• Visit: https://appleid.apple.com
• Sign in → Go to Devices → Select your iPhone → View IMEI.

Can You Track a Phone Directly With IMEI?

No, direct IMEI tracking is not available to the public.

Any app or website claiming to track phones using IMEI numbers is likely a scam.

However, you can still take official steps to locate your device:

• Report the IMEI to your network provider.
• File a report with the police.
• Ask authorities and your service provider to block or trace the phone using their internal systems.
• Use official tracking tools such as:
  • Google Find My Device
  • Apple Find My iPhone

Steps to Track Your Lost Phone With IMEI

1. Report IMEI to Your Network Provider

Contact your SIM provider (MTN, Airtel, Glo, 9Mobile, etc.) and request:

• IMEI registration
• Device blocking
• Assistance in tracing your phone

2. File a Police Report

Visit your nearest police station with:

• Your IMEI number
• Proof of ownership (purchase receipt, phone box, or email confirmation)
  Law enforcement can request network providers to track your device’s location.

3. Use Online Tracking Tools

While IMEI helps with official recovery, use these tools immediately:

Pro Tips to Protect Your Phone

• Enable Find My Device (Android) or Find My iPhone (Apple).
• Always use a strong screen lock and SIM lock.
• Turn on Google or Apple account sync for remote access.
• Write down your IMEI number and keep it safe for emergencies.

Final Thoughts

Tracking your lost phone using its IMEI number is possible, but only through network providers and law enforcement agencies.

For faster recovery, combine IMEI reporting with tools like Google Find My Device or Apple Find My iPhone.

Don’t wait until it’s too late, find and store your IMEI number today to protect your device and data.