IMEI Validator & Device Lookup

This tool checks two things: (1) whether your IMEI number has the correct 15-digit numeric format and passes the Luhn checksum algorithm, and (2) whether the first 8 digits (the Type Allocation Code, or TAC) match a device brand and model in our built-in reference database. It does not connect to the internet, does not contact any carrier, and does not access any stolen-phone registry.

No. A valid IMEI only means the number is correctly formatted. A stolen phone typically has a correctly formatted IMEI. To check if a phone is blacklisted or reported stolen, you need to check with your carrier or use a service connected to the GSMA IMEI database, such as your carrier's official check tool.

No. This tool cannot determine carrier lock or Activation Lock status. Both require querying carrier or Apple systems, which this tool does not do. To check Activation Lock on an iPhone, the only reliable method is to physically power on the device and go through setup — if it asks for a previous owner's Apple ID before completing setup, Activation Lock is active. The seller must sign out of their Apple ID and erase the device before you take it. For carrier lock, contact your carrier directly or test with a different carrier's SIM. Note: checkcoverage.apple.com checks warranty and support coverage — it is not an Activation Lock checker.

The device lookup uses a built-in reference table of TAC codes (the first 8 digits of an IMEI) mapped to device brands and models. This table is compiled from publicly available manufacturer TAC allocations and covers several hundred common devices. It is not a live database — it was compiled at the time this site was built and is periodically updated. If your device shows as "TAC not recognized," it simply means it is not yet in our reference table, not that anything is wrong with the IMEI.

No. All checking happens entirely in your browser using JavaScript. Your IMEI is never sent to our servers or any third party. We do not log IMEI numbers. Standard website analytics may record that you visited the page, but not the IMEI you entered.

The Luhn algorithm is a simple checksum formula used to validate identification numbers. All legitimate IMEI numbers are designed to pass this check. If an IMEI fails the Luhn check, it was either entered incorrectly or is not a real IMEI number. Passing the Luhn check means the format is correct — it does not validate any other property of the phone.

On any phone, dial *#06# — the IMEI will appear on screen. On iPhone, go to Settings → General → About. On Android, go to Settings → About Phone. The IMEI is also printed on the original box and, on older phones, under the battery. See our full IMEI guide for more detail.