How to Find My Stolen iPhone with IMEI Number
Every year, thousands of iPhones are stolen around the world. If you have become a victim of such a crime, losing your beloved device can be incredibly distressing. However, there are ways to track down your stolen iPhone using its unique IMEI number. In this article, we will guide you through the process of finding your stolen iPhone with the help of its IMEI number.
Understanding the IMEI Number
The International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number is a 15 or 17-digit unique identifier assigned to every mobile device, including iPhones. This number is crucial in tracking down stolen devices, as it serves as a primary identifier for your iPhone. It is essential to have your iPhone’s IMEI number handy to report it as stolen and initiate the tracking process.
Step 1: Find Your iPhone’s IMEI Number
Before you can start tracking your stolen iPhone, you need to find its IMEI number. There are several ways to do this:
- For iPhone models with a physical SIM card tray, you can find the IMEI number by looking at the SIM tray. The 15-digit IMEI number is printed on the tray itself.
- For iPhone models with an eSIM, you can find the IMEI number by going to Settings > General > About. Scroll down to view the IMEI number.
- Alternatively, you can dial 06 on your iPhone’s keypad to display the IMEI number on the screen.
Step 2: Report the Stolen iPhone
Once you have your iPhone’s IMEI number, the next step is to report it as stolen to the authorities and your service provider. Contact your local police department and provide them with the IMEI number, along with any other relevant information about your stolen iPhone. Additionally, inform your service provider about the theft and request to have your iPhone’s account suspended to prevent the thief from using it.
Step 3: Use Find My iPhone
Apple’s Find My iPhone feature is an excellent tool for tracking down stolen devices. To use this feature, you need to have an Apple ID and be signed in to iCloud on your iPhone. Follow these steps:
- Go to the Find My iPhone website or open the Find My iPhone app on another Apple device.
- Sign in with your Apple ID credentials.
- Select your stolen iPhone from the list of devices.
- Use the “Play Sound” option to make your iPhone ring, even if it’s on silent mode.
- Enable the “Lost Mode” option to lock your iPhone and display a custom message with your contact information.
- Use the “Erase iPhone” option as a last resort if you cannot recover your device.
Step 4: Work with Authorities
Cooperate with the police and provide them with any information you have regarding the theft, such as the location where your iPhone was last seen or any potential leads. Keep in touch with the authorities throughout the investigation process.
Conclusion
Although finding a stolen iPhone can be challenging, using its IMEI number can significantly increase your chances of recovery. By following these steps, you can take an active role in tracking down your stolen iPhone and getting it back. Remember to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect your device from theft in the future.
