Published on August 28, 2026
By Staci Lell
If you've ever been asked for your phone's IMEI number, here's a simple explanation. An IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number is a unique identifier assigned to your phone. It helps carriers like Cricket Wireless and manufacturers identify a specific device for network compatibility checks, activation, troubleshooting, and reporting a phone lost or stolen. Think of it as your phone's fingerprint; it helps distinguish your specific phone from others. Knowing your IMEI can save time, help you avoid surprises, and make managing your phone service a little easier.
What is an IMEI number?
An IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number is a unique identifier assigned to your mobile phone. Wireless carriers use it to verify device compatibility, activate service, troubleshoot technical issues, and identify lost or stolen devices. You can usually find your IMEI by dialing *#06#, checking your phone's settings, or looking on the original packaging from the manufacturer.
Why does an IMEI number do?
Your IMEI can help you avoid headaches when you're setting up service, switching carriers, or dealing with a lost phone. Having your IMEI handy can help save you time when you need to:
- Check whether your phone will work on a wireless network
- Bring your current phone to a new carrier like Cricket Wireless
- Activate service faster
- Get support when troubleshooting issues
- Report a lost or stolen phone
- Verify details when buying or selling a phone
How to find your IMEI number
Need your IMEI? The good news is that it's usually easy to find.
Dial *#06#
On many phones, you can simply dial *#06# and your IMEI number will appear on the screen.
Look in your phone settings
Many smartphones display the IMEI in device settings. Look for sections such as:
- About Phone
- Device Information
- Phone Information
The exact location of the IMEI number can vary depending on your phone make and model.
Check the original box
Still have the box your phone came in? The IMEI number is often printed on the packaging label on the original box.
When will you need your IMEI?
One of the most common times you'll need your IMEI is when you're bringing your phone to a new carrier like Cricket Wireless. Your IMEI number can help confirm whether your phone is compatible before you activate new service. Your IMEI number can also help customer support quickly identify your phone model when helping troubleshoot issues.
Here are some examples of when you might need your IMEI number:
- Switching to Cricket Wireless
- Bringing your own device or phone (BYOD) to a new carrier
- Activating an eSIM
- Buying a used phone
- Selling a phone
- Filing an insurance claim
- Reporting theft of a mobile device
- Checking compatibility before purchasing a new plan
What's the difference between IMEI and my phone number?
Both numbers play an important role, but they do very different jobs. Here’s a quick guide to tell the difference between the IMEI number and your phone number:
| IMEI number | Phone number |
| Identifies your phone | Identifies your phone line |
| Stays associated with the phone | Can change if you switch carriers |
| Used for phone verification and compatibility | Used for calls and texts |
| Unique to the phone itself | Associated with your wireless account |
Here’s a simple way to think about it: Your phone number helps people reach you. Your IMEI helps identify the phone you're using.
What's the difference between IMEI and a serial number?
Your phone may have both an IMEI and a serial number. While they might look similar, each one has a different job:
| IMEI number | Serial Number |
| Identifies your phone on a wireless network | Identifies your phone in a manufactuer's system |
| Determines if your phone works on a network | Helps with support, repairs, and warranty service |
| Usually a 15 digit number | Varies in length and format |
| Used for phones and wireless devices | Used for many electronic products |
The easiest way to remember it: Your IMEI connects your phone to the wireless world. Your serial number connects your phone to its manufacturer. Cricket’s compatibility checker uses the IMEI, also called the Device ID, to determine whether a phone can work on the Cricket network.
Can two phones have the same IMEI?
No. Legitimate mobile phones are assigned unique IMEI numbers. That uniqueness is what helps carriers and manufacturers distinguish one phone from another.
Should you share your IMEI?
It's smart to share your IMEI only when necessary. Generally, you'll only need to provide it when:
- Checking phone compatibility on a wireless network
- Activating wireless service
- Getting technical support
- Reporting a phone lost or stolen
As with any sensitive personal information, only share your IMEI number with trusted organizations or service providers.
Can someone misuse your IMEI?
Yes. Your IMEI does not provide access to your personal data, but it is still important to protect it. Only share your IMEI with trusted wireless carriers, device manufacturers, or authorized support teams and avoid posting it publicly or sharing it with unknown individuals.
Ready to make the switch?
Before you switch, use your IMEI to confirm your device is compatible with the Cricket Wireless network. If your phone is eligible, you can bring your current device (BYOD), keep your number, and activate service in just a few steps.
Frequently asked questions about IMEI Numbers
What does IMEI stand for?
IMEI stands for International Mobile Equipment Identity.
Can I use my IMEI to check if a phone is compatible with a provider?
In many cases, yes. Wireless providers like Cricket often use your IMEI to check whether your device will work on their network.
Does changing carriers change my IMEI?
No. Your IMEI is tied to the phone itself, not your wireless account.
Do all smartphones have an IMEI?
Mobile phones typically have a unique device identifier, and many smartphones use an IMEI as that unique identifier. Some dual-SIM devices may have two IMEI numbers.
What is an IMEI used for?
An IMEI helps wireless carriers like Cricket identify your phone for activation, compatibility checks, troubleshooting, and reporting a device lost or stolen.
Is my IMEI private?
Yes. While your IMEI doesn't contain personal information, you should only share it with trusted carriers, manufacturers, or authorized support providers.
Can I change my IMEI?
No. In many countries, altering an IMEI is illegal. Your IMEI is permanently assigned to your device by the manufacturer.
What happens if my IMEI is blacklisted?
A blacklisted IMEI may prevent a phone from connecting to participating wireless networks, often because it has been reported lost or stolen.