Did you know that every device phone Does it have a unique and exclusive identification number? Just as we have an ID or CPF or cars have a chassis, cell phones have the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI).

The IMEI is not exclusive to Brazil. On the contrary: it is a resource used globally and is made up of four groups of numbers: 000000-00-000000-0. This number is important because it can identify and even protect your cell phone, ensuring that it is regular and certified by official bodies, such as the National Telecommunications Agency (Anatel).

How do I find mine?

The IMEI number can be printed on the device box or printed on a sticker on the back where the battery is located. The user can also find out the IMEI number by dialing *#06# and pressing the power button. Since this is an important number for the security of the device, it is a good idea to write it down somewhere reliable for possible reference. It is always good to note that dual-chip devices have an IMEI for each chip and the way to check it is through *#06#.

According to data from Anatel, the IMEI is important to check if the device is in good standing, that is, if it has not been stolen, lost or tampered with, for example. Anatel has the page Cool Cell Phonel, which provides consumers with the possibility of checking the status of their IMEI and its regularization.

If someone has their cell phone stolen, they can block the device through their cell phone operator by providing the IMEI number, which is entered into the National Registry of Stolen Mobile Devices and cannot be used by another user. According to Anatel, only the person who registered the theft can request the IMEI to be unblocked in this registry, with the help of the cell phone operator.

Since 2018, Anatel, in partnership with operators and the Federal Police, has implemented a project in the states that only allows the use of new cell phones on national networks if they are in good standing. Devices with Imei locked are prevented from accessing Brazilian mobile networks.

Source: Anatel

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