How the blacklist works
When an owner reports a phone lost or stolen, or stops paying an instalment plan, the carrier can add its IMEI to a block list. Through the GSMA Device Registry, many carriers share these lists, so a phone blocked in one network is often blocked in others, sometimes across borders.
A blacklisted phone usually still turns on and works on Wi-Fi, which is why sellers can demo it convincingly. The problem appears when you insert a SIM.
Status on IMEI.si
The GSMA blacklist lookup is on our roadmap and the report marks it as coming soon. Until then, the device, Find My and warranty checks already catch most problem phones: a stolen iPhone almost always still has Find My on.
How to reduce the risk today
- Check Find My / Activation Lock and the model with IMEI.si before meeting the seller.
- Insert your own SIM during the meeting, make a call and open a web page.
- Get a written receipt with the IMEI, date, price and the seller's details.
- Be wary of prices far below the market and of sellers who avoid meeting in person.
Frequently asked questions
Can a clean phone become blacklisted later?
Yes, if the previous owner reports it stolen or stops paying an instalment plan after the sale. A receipt with the IMEI protects you if that happens.
Can a blacklisted IMEI be cleaned?
Only the carrier that blocked it can remove it, usually at the request of the person who reported it. Changing an IMEI is illegal in many countries.
Last updated 12 October 2026