Losing your phone can be a stressful experience. Many Filipinos wonder if they can track its serial number and IMEI. While these numbers are crucial for identification, tracking a phone isn’t as straightforward. In this article, you’ll uncover the realities of tracking a lost phone using its serial number. You’ll also know the steps to recover your device and how to set up preventive measures at the right time.
What Is a Serial Number?
Serial numbers are unique identifiers assigned to individual items or products. They are usually a string of numbers, letters, or a combination of both. Often, they are written in a format specified by the manufacturer. The main function of this unique number is to track and distinguish that specific item from others of the same model.
In the Philippines, serial numbers are everywhere. You find them on smartphones, other electronic devices, vehicles, and business receipts and invoices like those issued by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), which have unique serial numbers.
Every household in a Barangay also has a unique household serial number (HSN). In terms of smartphones (and other products), they help manufacturers track inventories, warranty, and present counterfeiting. These serial numbers will be printed on a sticker or engraved on that particular product.
Serial Number vs IMEI Number: Are They the Same?
Serial and IMEI numbers are unique, but they differ in purpose. An IMEI, or International Mobile Equipment Identity, is a 15-digit code unique to cellular devices. It helps identify the device on mobile networks, enabling providers to track and manage services rendered.
In contrast, a serial number is mostly used by the manufacturer to differentiate that unique product from others of the same model. Thus, where the IMEI is specifically for network identification, the serial number helps manufacturers track the smartphones as physical products. If you also have hardware issues and want to contact your manufacturer, they will need the serial number to identify your device.
Can A Phone Be Tracked by Serial Number?
The short answer is that it is barely possible to use a phone’s serial number to track its location. Serial numbers lack built-in location technology. In contrast, phone tracking requires GPS, cellular triangulation or network signals. That said, law enforcement can use serial numbers alongside IMEI numbers in investigations, especially for stolen devices. They may fulfill a supporting role to assist in recovery.
Step-by-Step Guide to Track a Lost Phone in the Philippines
Considering how tricky it is to track using serial numbers directly, let’s look at the different indirect techniques and tools you can employ to track serial numbers.
Locate Your IMEI/Serial Number
When you want to report your lost phone in the Philippines, you might be asked to protect your IMEI number. So, it’s a fantastic step to locate your serial number and IMEI number and copy them somewhere else for safe keeping. While these numbers won’t help track your phone directly, you’ll need them for identifying your device. To find your IMEI number:
- Go to Settings < General < About.
- On most phones, you’ll see the Serial number at the top of the About page.
- Next, scroll down to find the IMEI number at the bottom of the page.
- Alternatively, from your iPhone or Android phone dialer, dial the code *#06#.
File a Police Report
Reporting to the Police is a fundamental aspect of tracking the serial number on your smartphone. To do this, you have to visit the nearest police station in your jurisdiction. Then, follow these steps:
- Provide a detailed account of the incident, including whether intimidation or duress was used.
- Ensure your explanation includes identifying details of the device, like IMEI number, color, brand, model, and serial number.
- Furthermore, in many Filipino communities, you can also hasten the process by contacting the Barangay. As the frontline unit of governance, reporting to them can help mobilize community networks and watch groups to look out for your phone.
Report to Your Telecom Provider
You can also track serial numbers by reporting to your Telecoms provider. Specifically, they will need both the serial number and the IMEI number. Your Telecoms provider may be able to assist with tracking and location of the device. However, they might only assist if you can provide a court order, which can be pretty expensive to obtain.
Submit IMEI to NTC’s CEIR
The National Telecommunications Commission also provides an avenue to report and block your lost or stolen phone using the IMEI number. Note that you cannot directly use this means to track your phone. To use this avenue, here’s what you should do:
- Upload a valid identification such as your government-issued ID or school ID for students. You can also use your NBI clearance or birth certificate as your ID.
- Net, upload the affidavit of loss or undertaking form.
- You’ll need the police report as well.
- Alternatively, you can send this documentation to the email address consumer@ntc.gov.ph or call 02-89213251: 02-89267722: 02-89204464. You can also visit the nearest regional NTC office if you prefer that.
Use Tracking Tools
You can also use dedicated phone tracking tools to locate it. These tools like Google Find My Device for Android, iCloud for iPhone and MLocator can help locate a lost or stolen device. Let’s talk about how to use them.
Google Find My Device (Android)
Google Find My Device is a built-in locating feature on Android devices connected via Google accounts. You can enable this feature to allow locating, locking, or erasing your devices remotely. Here are the steps you need to take:
- Go to “Settings” and then “Security” and “Find My Device”.
- In the future, log into the Find My website via browser or download the Find My Device app on another Android device.
- Log in using the same Google account on your target device.
- Once logged in, you’ll see all the devices connected to your Google account. If the devices are not active, you’ll see that as well.
- Tap on the target device, and you’ll see its location or last known location if the device is offline.
- Within the app, you can make your device play a sound, lock and send a custom message, or permanently delete all data on the device.
iCloud (iPhone)
You can also make your own iPhone serial number tracker using your iCloud account. Since iCloud is the connection between all your Apple devices, it can also serve as your locating tool. That said, note that you won’t be able to track an iPhone with a serial number and IMEI this way. This works via your Find My app, which is a built-in locating tool. Here are the steps to enable and use it.
- Go to Settings and click on your name or Apple ID
- Next, select “Find My.”
- Then click on “Find My iPhone.”
- Turn on Find my iPhone and Send Last Location.
- In the future, you can easily visit the Find My page online or use the Find My app on another Apple device.
- Next, log in using your Apple ID and password (the same one linked to the missing device).
- You’ll be able to locate the device on the list before you.
- Tap on the correct device, and you can make it play a sound, lock, or get permanently erased.
Online Mobile Number Locator
Location tracking apps are awesome. But they don’t always do the work you need, especially when you have not logged or enabled them. In that case, you can try using an online mobile number locator like MLocator. This fantastic solution leverages only the phone number connected to the device you are looking for. And as long as it’s online, MLocator can triangulate its location to offer its geographical coordinates on a map. To use MLocator:
- Go to MLocator and type in the phone number of your target device. Next, click on “Locate.”
- Wait for MLocator to uncover its location.
- Enter your email to complete your account creation.
- Within your dashboard, you’ll see the status of your tracked target device.
Anti-Snatching Tips for Filipino Users
Losing your phone to snatchers is a common concern. You need these practical tips to protect your device and yourself. Here are anti-snatching strategies for Filipino users:
- Hold it tight: Always hold your phone securely in crowded areas and avoid using it near open windows or while walking on the street.
- Enable location tracking tools on your smartphone: Make sure your Google “Find My Device” or Apple’s “Find My” apps are enabled and working in the background. These security tools can help.
- Enhance security features: Keep your Google or Apple account credentials secure to prevent unauthorized access. Make sure you’re using strong passwords, biometric locks, and two-factor authentication.
- Use anti-theft apps: Use anti-theft apps that will alert you when you’re not close to them. Be sure to pick apps that are compatible with the local networks.
- Insure expensive devices: Another anti-snatching measure you need is getting gadget insurance from local providers for your high-end phones, laptops, and other devices. This ensures you can recover the cost of your phone if it’s lost or stolen.
- Store device information: Note down your phone’s IMEI, serial number, and proof of purchase. Such documentation can come in handy during recovery and if you ever take legal action.
- Register your device information with NTC: Upon purchase, you should also pre-register your IMEI with the NTC at the store or retailer. Also, keep a copy of the IMEI registration for future reference.
FAQ
Can I track an iPhone with a serial number and IMEI?
No, you cannot track an iPhone with a serial number or IMEI alone. You need location-tracking tools like Apple’s Find My or online mobile number locator tools like MLocator. These tools use GPS, network signals, and Wi-FI location data to help you uncover the location of your lost or misplaced iPhone.
Can I track my lost phone without a police report?
Yes, but it’s generally advisable to file a police report. This can come in handy during the recovery phase, making it easier to defend the stance that it’s your smartphone that was stolen. Filing a report for stolen phones is also a necessary step in the Philippines after a gadget theft incident.
Is it possible to find an IMEI with a serial number?
You won’t find your IMEI number with a serial number. But there are other ways to find an IMEI number, such as your phone’s original packaging and carrier online account. If you don’t have the phone besides you, check this guide to find an IMEI number without your phone.
Is it possible to track a lost mobile if it’s switched off?
Generally, it is trickier to find a lost mobile once it’s switched off as it no longer transmits any network, GPS, or Wi-FI signals. However, there’s a possibility of having a record of where it was last connected to the network. Having such insight can aid your recovery process.
Wrap Up
Now you have all the fabulous ways to locate your lost or misplaced phone in real time. Tracking with serial numbers and IMEIs is often used as a supplementary tool, especially for identification. Remember, it’s better to be cautious than to regret. Hence, take advantage of our anti-snatching measures to stay safe and protect your gadgets. And you can always use location-tracking tools like your Find My apps or MLocator to recover your gadgets in no time.
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