Buying a used unlocked phone can save hundreds of dollars, but it comes with risks. Scammers sell stolen, blacklisted, or damaged phones to unsuspecting buyers. This comprehensive guide will show you exactly how to verify a used phone is legitimate before purchasing.

Step 1: Check the IMEI Number

The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is your phone's unique 15-digit identifier. It's the most important piece of information for verifying a used phone.

How to Find the IMEI:

What to Check:

Step 2: Verify the Phone Isn't Stolen or Blacklisted

Use free online IMEI checkers to verify the phone's status:

Recommended Free IMEI Checkers:

1. CTIA's Stolen Phone Checker: (StolenPhoneChecker.org)

2. Swappa's ESN/IMEI Checker:

3. IMEI.info:

Red Flags:

A blacklisted phone cannot be activated on most US carriers and has significantly reduced resale value. Never buy a blacklisted phone unless you plan to use it internationally only (and even then, be cautious).

Step 3: Check for iCloud Activation Lock (iPhone)

Activation Lock is Apple's anti-theft feature. A locked iPhone is worthless unless you have the previous owner's Apple ID credentials.

How to Check Before Buying:

  1. Have seller sign out of iCloud in front of you
  2. Go to Settings > [their name] > Sign Out
  3. After they sign out, reset the phone: Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings
  4. During setup, you should NOT see "iPhone is locked to owner"

If buying online/remotely:

Warning Signs:

Step 4: Verify Google Account Lock (Android)

Android has Factory Reset Protection (FRP) that requires the previous owner's Google account after a factory reset.

How to Check:

  1. Have seller perform a factory reset in your presence
  2. Go through initial setup
  3. You should NOT be prompted for the previous owner's Google account
  4. If prompted, the phone is still locked to their Google account

How to Bypass (Legitimate):

Step 5: Physical Inspection

Examine the phone thoroughly for damage or signs of fraud:

Exterior Inspection:

Screen Check:

Water Damage:

Step 6: Functional Testing

Test all phone features before completing purchase:

Cellular Testing:

Camera Testing:

Sensor Testing:

Connectivity:

Audio:

Battery:

Step 7: Verify Carrier Unlock Status

Just because a seller says it's "unlocked" doesn't make it true.

How to Verify:

  1. Insert SIM card from a different carrier than phone's original carrier
  2. If phone connects and makes calls, it's unlocked
  3. iPhone: Settings > General > About - if "Carrier Lock" says "No SIM restrictions," it's unlocked
  4. Android: Try different carrier SIM or check with seller's carrier

Step 8: Check Warranty Status

iPhone:

Android:

Where to Buy Used Phones Safely

Recommended Marketplaces:

1. Swappa:

2. Back Market:

3. Amazon Renewed:

4. Manufacturer Certified Refurbished:

Risky Platforms:

Red Flags to Avoid

Walk away if you encounter any of these:

Safe Transaction Practices

  1. Meet in public: Police stations often have "safe exchange zones" for online sales
  2. Bring a friend: Extra person for safety and second opinion
  3. Cash or secure payment: Avoid wire transfers or apps with no buyer protection
  4. PayPal Goods & Services: Offers buyer protection (never use Friends & Family)
  5. Get a receipt: Written receipt with IMEI, date, price, seller signature
  6. Test everything first: Don't complete transaction until fully tested
  7. Trust your instincts: If something feels off, walk away

Price Guide for Used Phones

Used phone prices typically depreciate:

iPhones retain value better than Android devices. Flagship Androids depreciate faster.

What to Do If You've Been Scammed

If you unknowingly bought a problematic phone:

  1. Contact seller immediately and request refund
  2. If purchased with PayPal/credit card, file dispute
  3. Report to platform where purchased (Swappa, eBay, etc.)
  4. File police report if phone was stolen (bring all evidence)
  5. Contact FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov
  6. Leave honest review to warn other buyers

Final Checklist Before Purchase

Buying a used unlocked phone can be a smart financial decision, but requires careful verification. Follow this guide to protect yourself from scams and ensure you're buying a legitimate device that will serve you well for years to come.