How to check an IMEI in Malaysia (and what it can tell you)

What an IMEI is

The IMEI is a 15-digit number that identifies a phone on mobile networks. Phones with two SIM slots or an eSIM have two IMEIs.

How to find it

All of these should show the same number. If the box doesn't match the phone, ask why before you buy.

• Dial *#06# on the phone.
• iPhone: Settings > General > About. Android: Settings > About phone.
• The label on the original box.

How stolen phones are blocked in Malaysia

Malaysia's mobile operators run a blocking service: when the owner of a lost or stolen phone reports it to their telco, the phone can be blocked on all Malaysian networks. Blocking only works in Malaysia, not overseas.

There's no free official website where the public can check whether an IMEI has been blocked. Paid international checkers exist, but they may not include Malaysian blocks.

What you can do instead

• Insert your own SIM and make a call and use mobile data. A blocked phone won't connect.
• Check the model and serial on Apple's Check Coverage page (checkcoverage.apple.com) for iPhones.
• Make sure the seller's account is signed out and Find My is off.
• Buy from a seller who checks IMEIs and gives you a receipt showing the IMEI.

How RunMobile checks

We check every phone's IMEI before buying it, refuse phones reported lost or stolen, and report anything suspicious to the police, as licensed second-hand dealers must. Every phone we sell comes with a receipt showing its IMEI.