answersLogoWhite

0


Best Answer

The IMEI number is unique - every phone's IMEI is individual to that phone. The IMEI will allow the authorities to locate the phone - by getting the network to track it's movements. As soon as the phone is switched on - it sends a data stream to the nearest three mobile phone towers. This identifies the handset to the network, and tells the network where it is (for billing or charging purposes). EVERY mobile phone can be tracked to within (roughly) a 3 metre radius !

User Avatar

Wiki User

7y ago
This answer is:
User Avatar
More answers
User Avatar

Wiki User

7y ago

Electronics have a unique number assigned to them when they were manufactured. Many times a lost phone will be turned in to local authorities and then they can check the list to see if the one returned is yours or someone elses. It just helps to identify the product and get it back to its original owner.

This answer is:
User Avatar

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts
Q: How does a serial number help police find a stolen phone?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
magnify glass
imp
Related questions

Your cell phone is stolen. Metro PCS is the carrier. Should the phone be reported as stolen to the police?

No


How do i find out a stolen phones serial number?

Want to keep a record of your mobile serial number in case it is stolen? There are two methods. With the phone switched on dial *#6# and your phones serial number will be displayed on the screen! The less technical way to find your phones serial number is to turn your phone off, remove the battery cover, remove the battery and look at the case under the battery for the number. For quick access, maybe you could store it in your phone.


Why is an International Mobile Equipment Identity useful?

The International Mobile Equipment Identity number or IMEI is as useful as your car's serial number, especially when your phone is stolen. When someone reports their phone stolen, operators mark the phone as invalid. The IMEI is issued to every single GSM-enabled mobile phone on the market. Operators can use the number to identify valid or invalid subscribers to a particular network and the type of equipment used as well. If you report your phone stolen, police can quickly identify the phone by using the IMEI as well as the manufacturer and model of the phone.


Can you put your sim card in a lost or stolen nextel phone?

If the phone was reported lost or stolen, it cannot be activated again. Sprint/Nextel has it listed and the serial number has been flagged and it will not allow that phone to be activated.


Can air cards be traced?

Yes. They are, for all practical purposes, a cell phone. If you had one stolen, report it to the police and the carrier, giving them the ESN and phone number.


What is the cops phone number?

The phone number for the police in the U.K is, 999. The phone number for the police in the U.S is, 911.


How do you block a stolen blackberry?

Tell The police or call your service provider and give them your imei number this can be found on your phone box or press *#06#


Dual sim mobile have two imei no?

Yes I have seen myself that one china mobile phone having two IMEI. But I dont know the real meaning of it and the effects of it.The purpose of an IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity), MEID (Mobile Equipment Identifier) or ESN (Electronic Serial Number) or commonly known as Serial Number to control usage of an owners Cellphone in scenarios such as Phone has been stolen. With the right connection you can track your phones location through its Serial Number (since the phone transmit its esn to its network provider). You can also use the Serial Number to disable the phone if not found. Owner should submit the Serial Number to GSPD (Global Stolen Phones Database).Categories of Mobile Phone Serial Numbers:IMEI: Term use to identify Serial Number of GSM Phones (phones w/ SIM Card).MEID/ESN: Term commonly use to identify Serial Number of CDMA Phones (phone w/o SIM Card).


Can you detect the original phone by serial number?

serial number 35702304296453 Nokia 700 mobile phone is it a original Nokia phone or what?


Can i activate a stolen Verizon phone that was stolen from the store?

Nope - once a phone's been blocked via the IMEI number - it's permanently useless !


How can someone file a police report on a stolen cell phone?

To file a police report on a stolen cell phone, you should contact your local police department either by phone or by visiting their station. Provide details such as when and where the theft occurred, your phone's make and model, and any identifying features or information you have. They will guide you through the necessary steps to complete the report.


Can I go to jail for having a phone that was a gift?

If the phone was stolen, you could have a problem. If you cooperate with the police, they may decline to prosecute.