It can be stressful to lose your mobile phone. This is especially if you have personal sensitive information. But, IMEI Trackercan help you find and get your device back. It’s doesn’t matter if it’s lost or stored. The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a special 15-digit number that is unique to your phone.
It works like a fingerprint and can help track your phone, even if someone removes the SIM card. This guide will show you how to use an IMEI tracker and other helpful tools to recover your phone safely.
If your phone is stolen, you can check this article: What To Do When Phone Is Stolen- Steps To Help You Out
What Is IMEI Number?
The IMEI number is a special 15-digit code that belongs only to your device. It helps others know which phone, tablet, or smartwatch is yours. This IMEI number tracker is like your device’s ID number. One thing to note is that no other device has the same one.
| Part | Number of Digits | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| TAC | 8 digits | Tells the brand, model, and who made the device. |
| Serial Number | 6 digits | A number that makes your device different from others of the same model. |
| Check Digit | 1 digit | Helps check if the IMEI is correct (used to avoid typing mistakes). |
| Total Digits | 15 digits | This is the full IMEI number most devices have. |
| IMEISV (Variation) | 16 digits | Shows software version instead of check digit (used on some devices). |
The IMEI is built into the device during its manufacture. This number is used by mobile networks, phone manufacturers, and even law enforcement agencies. With the help of this number, they can identify, IMEI Track, or block a phone if it’s lost or stolen.
Where Can You Find The IMEI Number?
To use an IMEI tracker, you need your phone’s IMEI number. Here are the most reliable ways to find it:
| Where | How to Find IMEI |
|---|---|
| Phone | On SIM tray, back, or device label |
| Dialer | Dial *#06# |
| Settings | Android: About PhoneiPhone: General > About |
| Box/Receipt | Printed on packaging or invoice |
| Apple ID | Sign in at appleid.apple.com |
| Google Account | Sign in at myaccount.google.com > Devices |
| Computer | iPhone: Finder/iTunesAndroid: Find My Device |
Also read: How To Use Remote Mouse App With Windows/Mac Computer
Tracking a Lost Phone with IMEI Number Tracker: Step-by-Step
Here’s a step-by-step guide you can follow, especially if you live in India.
Step 1: Find Your IMEI Number
The first step is to find your IMEI number. we have already discuss ways to find the IMEI number. Let’s move on to next step.
Step 2: Report the Loss Immediately
You need to report the phone as lost so it can be blocked from being used. Here’s what you can do right away:
- File an FIR (Police Report): Go to the nearest police station or visit cybercrime.gov.in. Give IMEI, model, colour, and last known location.
- Tell Your Mobile Operator: Call Airtel, Jio, etc., and ask them to block your IMEI. They will stop the SIM and help blacklist the phone.
You can also use the CEIR Portal:
- Go to ceir.gov.in
- Click on “Block Stolen/Lost Mobile”
- Fill in IMEI, your mobile number, FIR copy, and ID proof
- You’ll get a Request ID for tracking
- This stops the phone from working on any Indian network
Step 3: Use Built-in Tracking Tools
IMEI helps block the phone, but for live tracking, use built-in tools:
For Android: Use Google Find My Device
- Shows your phone on a map
- You can play sound, lock, or erase data
- Works only if location was on before
For iPhone: Use Apple Find My
- Tracks using Bluetooth even when offline
- Carrier Apps: Apps like Airtel Thanks or Jio Security can give alerts if someone uses your IMEI.
Step 4: Try IMEI Tracker Apps (Use With Care)
Some apps claim to track phones by IMEI, but they mostly use GPS. These apps must be installed before the phone is lost.
| App Name | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|
| IMEI Tracker – Find My Device | Basic tracking, free alerts | Free |
| Prey Anti-Theft | Photo capture of thief, geofencing | Free / ₹400 per month |
| Cerberus | SIM change alerts, stealth mode | ₹400 one-time |
| Lookout Security | Security + IMEI check | Free / ₹250 per month |
| Mobile Missing (India-only) | Fast FIR and SIM alerts | Free |
Always allow GPS and location access for these apps to work correctly.
What Happens After You Report a Lost Phone?
If you lose your phone, there are ways to try and get it back. Here’s how tools like IMEI number trackers can help:
Your Phone Gets Blocked
Once you report it, your phone’s IMEI number gets added to a blacklist. No one can use the phone with any SIM card. It works even if they reset it. It won’t work on any mobile network. This is why IMEI number tracking is so helpful.
Police Can Track the Phone
The police can use your phone’s IMEI to try and find it. They use an IMEI tracker to see the last location where the phone was connected. This only works if the phone is turned on and connected to the internet or a mobile network.
You Can Try Tracking It Too
You can also use apps or services to help find your phone. Some websites and tools allow you to find my device with IMEI or track IMEI number online. Just search “how to track phone with IMEI number” to find reliable options. Make sure that you use trusted sources.
It May Take Time
Even with tracking tools, getting your phone back can take a few days or weeks. This depends on where you live and how quickly the police respond.
Lost It Outside India
If you’re in another country, report it to the local police and your mobile provider. They can also track the IMEI number and block it.
Tip: Always write down your phone’s IMEI number and keep it safe. You can find it by dialing *#06# on your phone.
Also read: How To Get Rid Of Ghost Touch On Android? Follow These Quick Fixes!
IMEI tracker – Check Status Of Complaints On Portal!
To monitor your CEIR request:
- Visit ceir.gov.in and select “Check Request Status.”
- Enter your Request ID.
- View the status (Pending, Processed, or Rejected). If processed, details like the block date, time, and operator will be displayed.
- If your request is rejected, review the provided reason (e.g., incomplete documents) and resubmit with corrections.
Alternative Tracking Tools For IMEI Tracker
If IMEI tracking isn’t available, you can use these tools for faster, user-controlled tracking:
| Service | Platform | How It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Google Find My Device | Android | Tracks real-time location via GPS. Works offline in crowded areas (Android 15). |
| Find My iPhone | iOS (Apple) | Finds iPhone via GPS or nearby Apple devices (even offline). |
| SmartThings Find | Samsung Devices | Tracks Samsung phones, even offline, using Samsung’s network. |
Google Find My Device (Android):
- Tracks your phone’s real-time location using GPS (if it’s online).
- Enable it in Settings > Google > Find My Device.
- Log in at android.com/find to locate, ring, or wipe your phone.
- Offline tracking works in crowded areas with Android 15’s network.
Find My iPhone (iOS):
- Pinpoints your iPhone’s location, even offline via nearby Apple devices (if enabled).
- Enable it in Settings > [Your Name] > Find My.
- Use icloud.com/find to lock, ring, or erase your phone remotely.
Samsung SmartThings Find (Samsung Users):
- Enable it in Settings > Samsung Account > Find My Mobile.
- Visit findmymobile.samsung.com to track or secure your device, even when offline.
Safety Tips: Using IMEI Trackers Wisely
There are many IMEI tracker apps and websites, but it’s important to stay cautious:
- Stick to Official Channels: Use trusted platforms like CEIR or reliable apps like mSpy.
- Avoid Unverified Sites: Never share your IMEI with untrustworthy websites. Scammers may misuse it for cloning or fraud.
- Don’t Pay Upfront: Legitimate phone recovery doesn’t require you to pay fees in advance, except through official channels.
- Check Reviews: If using third-party tools like Staunch IMEI Tracker, read user reviews first, and remember that success isn’t always guaranteed.
IMEI Tracker By Staunch
The IMEI Tracker by Staunch is a free website. It can help you find your lost phone. This can can show you the exact location of your phone and works in over 150 countries.
Tools like this can help you see the last known location of your phone. But remember, they don’t always work perfectly. It depends on things like if your phone has mobile data or GPS turned on.
Here is how you can find your phone with this IMEI tracker by Staunch:
- Visit the website and press the Track IMEI button.
- Enter the IMEI number of your smartphone that you can find using the steps mentioned above.
- Choose your country from the list and press the Track IMEI button.
What Are The Benefits of IMEI Tracker?
- Universal ID: The IMEI is unique to your phone, so it works even if you change the SIM card or turn off the GPS.
- Blocking Power: If your phone is stolen, IMEI tracking can block it, making it useless for thieves.
- Recovery Help: If your phone is lost or stolen, authorities can use IMEI tracking to help find it.
Also Read: How To Locate Your Lost AirPods Using Find my AirPods Feature
Additional Strategies and Tips For IMEI Tracker
You can always take steps to enhance your efforts of tracking a lost phone:
| Tip | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Report Quickly | Report loss as soon as possible |
| Save IMEI | Write down and keep IMEI safe |
| Enable Tracking | Turn on Find My Device or similar |
| Use 2FA | Protect accounts with two-factor auth |
| Contact Manufacturer | Ask for help and tracking tools |
New Ways to Track Phones in 2025
In 2025, there are new technologies that help you find your phone faster. This is even if it’s turned off or far away from any network.
Satellite Tracking
Some new phones can connect to satellites! This works even if your phone has no signal or is in a remote area.
How to use it: Go to Settings > Emergency SOS > Satellite Connection (on iPhones).
AI Theft Alerts
Android 15 or iOS 18 can now use artificial intelligence (AI) to sense strange behaviour. It can sense someone snatching your phone or trying to unlock it quickly. If that happens, the phone can lock itself automatically and send an alert.
Example: Google’s Theft Detection Lock.
Blockchain Protection
New tech using blockchain is being tested to keep track of IMEI. This makes it super hard for thieves to change a phone’s ID and sell it. It’s not everywhere yet, but we may see more of it by next year.
Crowdsourced Tracking
Apple’s Find My and Google’s Find My Device can use nearby phones to help find your lost phone. These systems send safe and encrypted signals to help you track your phone. It works even if it’s offline or has no Wi-Fi.
How to Get Ready
- Update your phone to Android 15 or iOS 18
- Turn on satellite tracking if your phone supports it
- Join a tracking network by enabling Find My Device (Android) or Find My iPhone (Apple)
Things To Do After Your Phone Is Lost Or Stolen: IMEI Tracker
Here are the tips that you must follow:
- Use Trusted Sources: Stick to official services like CEIR or trusted apps like mSpy.
- Avoid Unknown Websites: Don’t share your IMEI with untrusted sites to avoid scams.
- No Upfront Payments: Real phone recovery doesn’t ask for money upfront.
- Check Reviews: Look at reviews before using third-party apps like Staunch IMEI Tracker.
Tips To Protect Your Phone From Getting Stolen
As the saying goes, prevention is always better than cure. It’s best to protect your phone in the first place so it doesn’t get stolen. It’s important to note that these are only safeguards that you can follow.
Let’s check out some simple ways to protect your phone:
- Keep It Hidden: Don’t leave your phone out in the open. Keep it in your pocket or bag when you’re not using it.
- Turn On Location: Always keep your phone’s location and mobile data on. It helps track your phone if it gets lost or stolen.
- Use Find My Device: Turn on Find My iPhone (for iPhones) or Find My Device (for Android). You can track, lock, or even erase your phone if it goes missing.
- Get Phone Insurance: If your phone is expensive, getting insurance can help. It can cover repairs or give you a new phone if it’s stolen.
- Use Strong Locks: Set a strong password or use Fingerprint or Face ID to keep your phone safe from strangers.
- Note Your IMEI Number: Write down your phone’s IMEI number. It’s a special ID that helps track the phone if it gets stolen.
- Stay Alert: Always be careful in buses, trains, or busy streets. Many phones get stolen when people aren’t paying attention.
- Don’t Leave It Behind: Never forget your phone on a table, in a cab, or in public places. Someone might take it before you notice.
Android Settings To Prevent Your Phone From Getting Stolen
There are a few settings that you can enable to safeguard your phone and prevent it from getting stolen. Turning on these settings will increase the chances of getting it back via IMEI tracker. These are the toggles that you need to enable:
1.Require Password To Power Off:
By turning on this setting, every time you turn off or restart your phone, you will need to enter your PIN or password. To enable this setting do the following:
- Open the Settings App and go to the Security and Privacy section
- Tap on More Security and Privacy->Turn On Require Password To Power Off
2. Turn Off The Status Bar From The Lock Screen
Even if someone steals your phone, they won’t be able to turn on airplane mode or switch off mobile data. This helps keep your phone connected. It basically makes it easier to track.
Here’s how you can turn on this setting for different brands:
| Phone Brand | Steps |
|---|---|
| Vivo/iQOO Phones | 1. Go to Settings > Privacy > LockScreen and Wallpaper > Lockscreen Setting 2. Turn off “Open Control Centre from the Lockscreen” |
| Realme, OnePlus, Oppo Phones | 1. Open Settings > Notifications & Status Bar 2. Tap on Lock Screen notifications 3. Turn off “Swipe down on lock screen to view notification drawer” |
| Motorola Phones | 1. Open Settings > Lock Network & Security 2. Search for Control Centre 3. Turn off “Allow Access To Quick Settings” |
| Samsung Phones | 1. Open Settings > Lock Screen and AOD Section 2. Tap on Secure Lock Settings 3. Turn on “Lock Network & Security” |
Android 15 Theft Detection: A New Safety Feature – IMEI Tracker
Starting with Android 15, Google is adding new theft detection features. Let’s take a look at how each of these features will help you in case of theft:
| Feature | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| Factory Reset Protection | A thief can’t reset your phone without your Google account. You can still track it. |
| Private Safe | You can hide important apps in a secret space with a PIN. |
| Harder to Turn Off Find My Device | No one can turn off tracking without your password. |
| Stronger Lock Screen | The phone needs your PIN or password to open, even if stolen. |
| Smart Theft Protection | Your phone can tell if someone steals it and locks itself right away. |
| Offline Lock | If your phone goes offline or someone tries to break in, it will lock by itself. |
| Remote Lock | You can lock or erase your phone from far away and get your account back using your number. |
Limitations of IMEI Tracker:
- No Direct Access: You can’t track your phone by yourself. Only carriers and the police can do it.
- Phone Must Be On: IMEI tracking only works if the phone is powered on and connected to a network. If the phone is off, it can’t be tracked.
- Scam Risk: Some third-party tracking tools might promise to help but often don’t deliver or are scams.
A Few Tips to Follow To Track a Stolen Phone With IMEI
You need to follow a few steps to track your stolen phone using the IMEI number.
- First, you need to confirm and save your phone’s IMEI number whenever you buy or use the phone. If your phone is stolen, you can find it on the original box of your phone. You can also find it via Google or Apple.
- Immediately contact your carrier and tell them to blacklist your IMEI number when your phone is lost or stolen. So, your phone will not work on the national network if someone changes eSIM.
- Quickly contact the police, inform them about your loss, and provide them with the required information. So they can immediately start looking for your lost phone.
To Sum It Up – IMEI Tracker
While losing a phone can be a terrifying experience, using an IMEI tracker is the best way to retrieve it. By using IMEI number tracker, you can pinpoint its location. You can also contact authorities to help recover it.
It’s important to inform the relevant authorities. But, it’s also important to let your relatives know so your number does not get misused in any potential scam. If someone calls them then can help you in recovering your lost phone.
You can also rely on tools like Find My Device and Find My Phone to safeguard your device. Make sure to only use authorised websites. Do not reveal sensitive information like IMEI number on fake IMEI tracker websites.
The IMEI tracker feature is a powerful tool in the fight against mobile phone loss and theft. Remember, it’s not a mobile phone; it’s a house of your memories, work, and personal information. So, safeguard it and use every available resource to ensure its safe return in case it goes missing.
Also Read: How To Locate A Lost Or Stolen Android Smartphone
What to Do If You Can’t Get Your Phone Back
Sometimes, your phone might be lost for good. There can be multiple reasons for it. Maybe it’s switched off, the IMEI number was changed, or the police couldn’t help. Here’s what you should do next:
Secure Your Accounts
- Change passwords for your important accounts (like email, Instagram, or banking apps).
- Turn on 2FA (Two-Factor Authentication) so no one can log in without a special code.
- Log in from another device and remove the lost phone from your Google or Apple account.
Tell Your Bank and Mobile Company
- If you had apps like Google Pay, PhonePe, or your bank’s app on your phone, call your bank right away.
- Ask them to watch for any fake payments.
- Also, call your SIM card provider (like Jio, Airtel, or Vi). You can ask them to block your number so no one else can use it.
Use Phone Insurance
- If your phone was covered by insurance (like AppleCare or Samsung Care+), file a report.
- You’ll need your police report and IMEI number to claim a replacement or refund.
FAQs: How to Track a Phone Using IMEI Number
What is an IMEI number tracker?
An IMEI number tracker is a tool or system that helps identify and track mobile phones using their IMEI number. Every phone has a unique IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) code. It is used by mobile operators and police to find or block lost or stolen phones.
How to track a phone with an IMEI tracker?
You can’t track it yourself directly. You can report your lost phone to the police and your mobile service provider. They use an IMEI tracker to check where the device is active. You can also visit the CEIR website in India to block your IMEI.
What happens when an IMEI number is blocked?
When your phone’s IMEI is blocked using an IMEI number tracker, the phone becomes useless for calls or mobile data. It can’t work with any SIM card on major networks.
Can IMEI number tracking work if my phone is switched off?
If your phone is off or has no network, IMEI number tracking won’t show the location right away. But once it’s turned on and connected to a network, the IMEI tracker can help the authorities locate it.
What is CEIR and how does it help track IMEI numbers?
CEIR (Central Equipment Identity Register) is a government system in India that supports IMEI number tracking. It helps you track IMEI number and block stolen phones across all mobile networks, making it harder for anyone to use your device illegally.
Are IMEI tracker apps real or fake?
Many apps online claim to be IMEI tracker tools, but most of them don’t really work. Only your mobile network provider and the police can officially use IMEI number tracking.
Can Google Earth help me find my device with IMEI?
No, Google Earth cannot find my device with IMEI or track phones. It only shows maps and satellite images. To locate your phone, you need a real IMEI number tracker or your phone’s own tracking service.
Who can track a phone using IMEI number?
Only mobile service providers and the police can track IMEI number and locate the device using special tools. They use secure databases and an IMEI tracker to trace lost or stolen phones.
How can I unblock my IMEI after finding my phone?
If your phone is recovered, contact your network provider and show proof that it’s yours. They can remove the block from your IMEI. Once unblocked, your phone will work normally again.
What should I do if I find someone else’s lost phone?
If you find a lost phone, don’t try to open it. Instead, contact the network provider using the IMEI number or hand it to the nearest police station. They can use IMEI number tracking to find the rightful owner.
Did you know that refurbished mobile phones cost at least 50% less than new phones on Cashify? You also get other discounts, No-cost EMI and more, making it the most affordable way to buy a premium phone. So, what are you waiting for? Buy refurbished mobile phones at your nearest cashify store and avail exclusive offers.
