How do I check and verify a phone's IMEI at the store?

Step-by-step checklist

Follow these sequential checks during your in-person store inspection.

1. 01

   Retrieve hardware IMEI via dialler code

   Open the phone dialler and dial *#06#. A screen will immediately pop up displaying the device 15-digit IMEI numbers.

   • On dual-SIM devices, you will see IMEI 1 and IMEI 2.
   • Note down IMEI 1 as the primary identifier.
2. 02

   Cross-check in operating system settings

   Navigate to device settings to ensure internal software reports the same hardware identifier.

   • On iOS: Open Settings > General > About and scroll to IMEI.
   • On Android: Open Settings > About Phone > Status (or IMEI Information).
   • Confirm that all 15 digits match the number displayed by the *#06# dialler code.
3. 03

   Verify matching IMEI on store invoice

   When finalizing your purchase at the store, verify that the purchase receipt or bill explicitly lists the device IMEI.

   • Check that the invoice states the make, model, storage, and full IMEI.
   • Ensure the bill shows the store business name and branch address.

   Never accept a handwritten or printed bill that omits the device IMEI. An invoice without the IMEI cannot prove that you purchased that specific device.