What Is IMEI?
IMEI (International Mobile
Equipment Number) is a 15 digit Unique number which is used to identify GSM, WCDMA
& iDEN mobile phones. This number is
issued by the GSM authority. If your mobile phone is stolen, it can be traced
with the help of this IMEI code. This code represents information about the manufacturer,
model type, date and country of approval of the mobile Handset.
How it works?
Every
IMEI number is unique and is structured by BABT (British Approvals Board for
Telecommunication). Of the 15 digits, first 8 digits of IMEI number are TAC (Type
Allocation Code) which will give you the mobile phone brand and model. The
first 2 digits out of these 8 digits is the Reporting Body Identifier number
which gives the information about the GSMA approved group who allocated TAC.
Other 6 digits are serial numbers defined by manufacturers and last 1 digit is
the check digit.
If a
mobile is stolen and if it is switched on, the IMEI number is transmitted and
checked against a database in the network's EIR (Equipment Identity Register).
The EIR has three categories namely the "white lists", "grey
lists" and "black lists". The service provider can block a
handset by putting the IMEI code of the lost handset in black list. If a device
is found in blacklist in EIR, it becomes unusable on any operator that uses the
EIR, making theft of mobile equipment useless, unless for parts. Even though
the mobile is used with different sim-card it is still tracable.
Where to find IMEI Code on your cell phone?
Ø Just press * #06# in
your mobile hand set, IMEI number will be displayed on your mobile.
Ø IMEI code is printed in
the empty battery space.
Ø You can also find the IMEI
code on the packing Box of the Handset.
Process to file a complaint in case the mobile
is stolen
It is very important to note
down your IMEI code when the handset is purchased, as incase, the handset is
stolen you can call the service provider and block your number and give them
your IMEI code.
Ø First submit an FIR to the
police if your mobile lost
Ø Then ask your service provider to trace your number
Ø If your mobile is switched on it will trace easily
Ø You can then ask your service provider to Block your IMEI number
Ø Service provider use a shared hosting service for blocking IMEI
numbers
Ø Which means if your mobile have different sim then also Your
mobile will not work
Ø Your service provider can get that sim number which is used for your
IMEI Number.
Another option is, once stolen,
you just have to mail this 15 digit IMEI No to cop@vsnl.net with the following
details:
Ø Your name:
Ø Address:
Ø Phone model:
Ø Make:
Ø Last used No.:
Ø E-mail for communication:
Ø Missed date:
Ø IMEI No.:
Ø Your Mobile will be traced via a complex system of GPRS and internet.
Ø You will find where your hand set is being operated even in case your
number is being changed.
References:-
www.wikihow.com
