A handful of location tracking app ond phone retrieval service are available on the market. They communicate with nearby cell tower or satellites to transmit the location. However, without a SIM card, location service or internet connection, it may seem like all hope is lost when your phone goes missing, That’s why IMEI number comes in handy. Every time a phone uses a particular network to make or receive a call, send or receive SMS, its IMEI number is automatically emitted and tracked. So here are a few ways you can track lost Android phone using IMEI number and hopefully get it back.
What does IMEI number mean?
IMEI(International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique number for each mobile phone, typically found behind the battery and phone box. This 15 digit number can be used to identify GSM, WCDMA, IDEN and some satellite phones. Additionally, when you invest in a new cell phone, it will be blocked by that company and you can easily unlock phone by IMEI number.
Option 1. Track lost Android phone through wireless carrier
IMEI number can be used by the network provider to uniquely identify a mobile phone on the network and extend its services. Even if the SIM card has been changed, this number can help to track a lost cell phone. Wireless providers Sprint, AT&T and Verizon offer location services that users can subscribe to which costs about $5 to $10 per month, depending on the providers. Android or iOS users can download the apps that enable users to locate a cell phone in the event that it gets lost or stolen.
Option 2. Track your Android phone with Google account
The most common method to find missing Android phone is using Google’s Find My Device. It’s usually pre-installed on your smartphone. If you cannot locate it, simply download the app from the Play Store. As long as your phone is running 4.0 ice cream sandwich or a newer version, you will be able to download the app without any hassle.
If you are logged into your Google account, you can easily track the phone by typing “find my Android” or “where is my phone” on Google search. You will see the location of your lost device if it’s still connected to the internet and location service is enabled. But if your phone is not logged onto your Gmail, you can follow these steps:
- Go to google.com/android/find
- Sign into your Google account
- If you have more than one phone, select the lost one
- The lost phone gets a notification
- On the map, you’ll get information about where the phone is
If your phone is somewhere in your house and you still can’t find it, you can turn your phone’s ringer on, even if it’s set to silent mode. But if you need to pick up the phone from somewhere, you can lock the device to make sure no one can access your data. You’re also given option to erase all the data on your phone if it’s stolen.
Option 3. Track lost Android phone using IMEI tracker
Antitheft apps have been in development for a period of time, and they are formed with the intention of reducing theft and the counterfeit mobile phone business. Some of them can be activated by the SMS message, while some support using the IMEI number. In particular, AntiTheft App & IMEI Tracker All Phone Location can track lost Android phone by IMEI number. It works with smartphone running on Android 4.4 and higher. Here’s how you can locate your lost phone:
- Install and configure AntiTheft App & IMEI Tracker All Phone Location
- Grant all permissions to activate full functionality
- Enter the IMEI number of your lost Android phone and tap “Track”
- A small window with a list of places will appear, indicating the location and the close proximity of your phone.
Can thieves change the IMEI number?
Your lost Android phone can be traced and located with the help of the unique IMEI number. However, the thief can change this number using special software and it requires a long and complex process. It should be noted that it’s illegal to change IMEI numbers in many countries, and they also have strict punishments for this offense.
Is it possible to track lost mobile by phone number?
Yes, in case your mobile phone gets misplaced or lost, you can contact your wireless provider or log into your online account, and ask for call and text records coming from the lost phone. It will show you the phone numbers that the thief has been contacting with your cell phone. Then you can make use of reverse phone lookup service to identify names or addresses associated with the phone number. Report your phone as stolen and provide the agency with all relevant information. This can make location tracking much easier.
Alternatively, you can use TrackPhone to find your device. It can be used to track lost mobile with phone number as well as connect your family member or friends. You don’t have to go through complicated procedures and it will locate any cell phon in seconds. Simply type in the phone number and click “find location” button. Once the GPS on the phone is activated, you’ll receive precise location of your Android phone. Keep in mind that the phone should be switched on.
Wrapping up
Each mobile phone comes with IMEI number, making it possible to track a lost Android or iOS phone. You have the option to track or locate your cell phone by using IMEI tracker or built-in phone retrieval technology. Even if the SIM card has been changed or removed, it’s still possible to find your msising phone.