How to Track Lost Phone Using IMEI

Losing your phone can be stressful. But don’t worry—you can track your lost phone using its IMEI number. Every mobile phone has a unique number that is called international mobile equipment identity (IMEI). Using IMEI, you can legally track a lost phone in the Philippines. You can also call government authorities, or your mobile provider, or via online IMEI tracking tools. We shall see how effectively you can find lost cell phone by imei number​.

What Is IMEI and How Does It Work?

IMEI is a 15-digit unique number each mobile device has in it. This can help you to identify your phone and is used to track lost or stolen devices. The IMEI number remains the same even if a thief changes the SIM card.

The IMEI makes it possible for mobile networks to blacklist stolen phones so that they cannot connect to any network. If your phone is lost then you can track your phone’s last known location using IMEI. It is something that authorities and mobile networks can use to recover your device.

How to Locate Lost Phone Using IMEI

Losing your phone is bad but IMEI number tracking is one of the best ways out. Mobile networks and authorities in the Philippines provide tracking and blocking services to help retrieve lost devices. Here are the best ways to locate lost phone using IMEI.

Contact Government Websites and Authorities

The Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) and the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) help track and block lost phones. This is official and secure, and your phone cannot be resold or reused.

👉Steps:

1. Call the NTC and report your lost phone number via email or at the NTC office.
2. Go to the nearest PNP-ACG office to file a complaint.
3. You will need to provide your IMEI number, phone details, proof of ownership, and a police report.

Contact Your Mobile Network Provider

Your mobile network provider can use IMEI or block your lost phone from accessing mobile networks. This works quickly and effectively making your phone totally useless to thieves. Some providers offer location tracking tools to find lost phones using IMEI.

👉Steps:

1. Call your provider’s customer service and request IMEI tracking or blocking.
2. Provide the IMEI number, phone details, and proof of ownership.
3. Some providers may help locate your phone using the last network connection data.

GSMA IMEI Database

The GSMA IMEI Database is a global registry that stores phone details. If a phone is reported stolen, its IMEI is blacklisted, preventing it from working on multiple networks worldwide. This method is useful if your phone is taken outside the Philippines or sold internationally.

👉Steps:

1. Visit a GSMA IMEI check website, such as imeipro.
2. Enter your IMEI number and report it as lost or stolen.

3. If the phone is blacklisted, it will not work with most mobile networks globally.
4. Some websites offer alerts if the phone is reused or resold.

How to Track a Lost Cell Phone Using IMEI Number Online

Several websites and apps can help track a lost cell phone using imei number online​. Here are some options:

IMEI Tracker

The IMEI tracker website helps users find lost phone using IMEI numbers. It works globally, providing real-time location tracking, and ensuring device security. With an intuitive interface, users can track their phones effortlessly. 

1. Visit the website and click on Track IMEI.

2. Enter your phone’s IMEI number.

3. Click on Track to begin.
4. View the real-time location on the map.

The website has a high success rate, accurately tracking devices 80-90% of the time, depending on network and phone availability.

MLocator

MLocator is a reliable online IMEI tracker that helps locate lost phones using IMEI. This tracker works with any mobile phone, any mobile brand, or any operator offering real time GPS phone tracking by IMEI. Any device can easily be found by users, allowing them to have security and a relaxed mind. In addition to that, the platform is privacy-oriented, and all tracking data is deleted after usage.

1. Visit the website.
2. Enter the phone number linked to the IMEI.

3. Click on the search and enter the email id on which you want the report.

4. Complete the secure payment process.

5. Receive the phone’s real-time location via email.

Highly accurate results are provided by MLocator, managing to get a device’s location 65-80% of the time, depending on the level of network connectivity and GPS availability.

IMEI Tracker App

IMEI Tracker is a mobile app that will help you to track a lost cell phone using an imei number online​. It provides real-time location updates and a family tracker with a safety alert feature.

1. Install the app and grant the necessary permissions. 

2. Add family members to track their devices. 

3. Use GPS tracking to find lost or stolen phones.

The app mainly relies on GPS and requires installation before loss, making its success rate limited if not pre-installed. 

Mobile Location 

Mobile Location is a global phone tracking software that enables one to find lost cell phone by imei number​ or phone numbers. It is available on all major networks and operating systems. It works real-time geolocation tracking via satellites and mobile towers.

1. Visit the Mobile-Locator website.

2. Enter the phone number.
3. Start the tracking process.

4. View the device’s live location on the map.

Mobile-Locator boasts an 85% success rate, ensuring accurate and efficient phone tracking for users worldwide.

How to Find the IMEI Number of Your Cellphone?

The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number is the highly unique 15-digit code unique to your phone. Usage is essential for the tracking of lost devices, blocking stolen phones, and authentication. The steps for finding it are below.

For Android Phones

On Android, you can easily find your IMEI and it is present on your phone’s settings or you can use dialing a code. The advantage of this method is that it’s fast, reliable, and works on any Android brand. You are advised to just store your IMEI number in case you lose it at any time.

1. Dial #06# on your phone.

2. The screen will display your IMEI number.

For iPhones

You can find your IMEI by dialing a code or checking device settings if you have an iPhone. With iCloud and your Apple ID settings, Apple also stores IMEI numbers and makes it easy to retrieve.

1. Go to Settings then General. 

2. Click on About.

3. Scroll down to find the IMEI.

If you lost your phone and didn’t note the IMEI, using the above steps you can easily find the IMEI Number. If you don’t have your phone on hand, click here to learn to find the IMEI without your phone.

FAQ

Can I track my IMEI number on Google Maps?

No, Google Maps does not support tracking to locate lost phone using imei because it relies on GPS and internet connectivity, not device identifiers. However, you can use Find My Device (Android) or Find My iPhone (Apple) ​ if location services are enabled. These tools show the last known location on Google Maps.

Can I find a switched-off phone using the IMEI number?

IMEI tracking works only while the phone is switched on and if it is connected to a mobile network. Authorities and network providers can gather the last active location of the phone if it is switched off. The phone will be tracked again if the thief inserts a new SIM card and uses the phone again.

Can thieves change IMEI numbers?

Yes, some criminals indeed use software or tools to modify an IMEI number which makes the stolen phone untraceable. But this is illegal under the Philippine Anti-Cybercrime Law. If caught, offenders may be fined or imprisoned. For this reason, the lost phone must be reported immediately.

What to do if I can’t find my IMEI number?

If you don’t have your IMEI number, check your phone box, billing receipt, or your Google/Apple account. For Android users, log in to Google Find My Device, and for iPhone users, check Apple ID settings. 

Wrap Up

Losing a phone is frustrating, but IMEI tracking can help you find lost phones easily. Always record your IMEI number and report a lost phone to NTC, PNP-ACG, and your mobile provider. Online tools to find lost cell phone by IMEI number​ can also help, but they are not always accurate. For the best chance of recovery, act quickly and follow the legal process in the Philippines.