Can you sell a blacklisted phone?

Understanding this common phone lock type, and what you can do about it.

You probably have a general understanding of the words “blacklisted” and “blocked” — enough to know that you don't want it, especially when it comes to your tech. By definition, a blacklisted phone can render your device useless, unable to connect to any cellular network. If all you did was legally purchase a used iPhone, you may be wondering: how did you even get here?

"Many second-hand phone buyers discover they've actually purchased a locked phone."

In most cases, a blacklist is the result of a phone being reported as lost or stolen. The blacklist itself is actually a database that records all of the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) numbers of such reported phones over time. This 15-digit unique code allows carriers to block a specific device from service, and equips law enforcement with the information needed to identify a device when necessary.

With new smartphones increasingly entering the market at $1,000 or more, it's no surprise that many savvy cell customers choose to buy used phones. But as some unfortunate second-hand phone buyers may soon discover, that killer used iPhone deal they just scored might actually be blacklisted from cellular use.

SellLocked will buy your blocked or blacklisted phone, and get you paid fast.

How do I know if I have a blacklisted phone?

If you're not sure, you'll need your phone's IMEI, or you can also start with the device's ESN (Electronic Serial Number). Both of these are identifying codes that are unique to your specific device, and can help you find out whether your phone has been blacklisted, or not.

Now, here's what to do:

• You can find the IMEI right on the box; or, if you only have the phone itself, you can find this same information in Settings, on the back of the phone or sim tray, or right on your battery, depending on the device. You can also try dialing *#06#.
• With that information in hand, call your carrier and request to verify the IMEI. You may have to deal with a wait time, but you'll be able to get the confirmation you need, straight from your own trusted cellular service provider.
• Another quick and easy way to verify if your phone may have been blacklisted is to check your IMEI on a third-party site, like IMEIPro.

What should I do if I have a blacklisted phone?

So you just found out your second-hand phone has a bad or “blacklisted” IMEI after all? Your first option is to go back to the carrier or independent seller directly, and let them know that the phone is blocked.

Depending on the circumstances, the seller may offer to buy it back from you, or be able to clear up the blacklist so that you can keep the device and reactivate it under your name. If your first option falls flat, the next step would be to contact local law enforcement. From there, you can provide them with your device's IMEI or serial number to check and see if the device is linked to any open investigations — or to see if law enforcement needs it for any other reason. If you're able to see what entity (carrier, law enforcement, or other) initiated the blacklist, contacting them is also necessary.

If all of the above options do not pan out, and you've held onto the device for an amount of time deemed reasonable for those you have contacted to reply, you do have other options.

Can I sell a phone that's been blacklisted?

Yes! You can sell a blacklisted iPhone or other blocked device. Assuming that, after conducting your own due-diligence, you have confirmed that you are the legal and rightful owner of the device despite its block or blacklist, SellLocked will buy your new or used phone, and offer you top dollar for it. We understand how easy it is to end up with a blacklisted device, so we make it easy to sell it and move on.

Whether your phone is blacklisted (has a “bad ESN or IMEI”), or if it's financed, activation locked, or you're just ready to upgrade to the latest and greatest phone — contact SellLocked. Our reps will evaluate your device and make you an offer, fast.