What an IMEI is and why you need it

Your Samsung phone's IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a 15-digit number that uniquely identifies your device on cellular networks. Think of it like a serial number for your phone — no two devices share the same IMEI. You'll need it if your phone is lost or stolen and you want to report it to your carrier, if you're switching carriers, if you need warranty service, or if you're selling the phone and want to verify it's not blacklisted.

The IMEI is stored in your phone's hardware and also registered with your carrier. If your phone is reported stolen or has unpaid bills attached to it, carriers can use the IMEI to block it from connecting to their network, even if someone else inserts a different SIM card.

Key Takeaways

  • You can find your Samsung IMEI by dialing *#06# on your phone's keypad, which works on almost all Samsung models.
  • The Settings app also stores your IMEI under About Phone, usually in a section labeled Device ID or IMEI.
  • If your phone won't turn on, check the original box, receipt, or contact your carrier — they have your IMEI on file.
  • Write down or photograph your IMEI and keep it somewhere safe in case you need it later for warranty or theft reporting.
  • Never share your IMEI with strangers online, as it can be used to unlock or reprogram your device.

Dialing the IMEI code on your Samsung

The fastest way to see your IMEI is to open your phone's dialer (the app you use to make calls) and type *#06#, then press the call button. A popup window will appear showing your IMEI number — usually a single 15-digit string, though some Samsung models display two IMEIs if the phone has dual SIM slots.

This method works on virtually every Samsung phone, from budget models to flagship devices, and it works even if your phone is locked or you've forgotten your PIN. The code doesn't dial anything; it's a hidden command that triggers the phone to display the information.

Write the number down or take a screenshot. If you have a dual-SIM phone, you'll see two numbers labeled IMEI 1 and IMEI 2 — each SIM slot has its own IMEI.

Finding your IMEI in the Settings app

If the dialer code doesn't work or you prefer to navigate through menus, you can find your IMEI in Settings. Open Settings, then scroll down and tap About Phone. Look for a section called Device ID, IMEI, or Phone Identity — the exact label varies by Samsung model and Android version.

On newer Samsung phones running One UI, the path is usually Settings > About Phone > Device ID. On older models, it may be under Settings > About Device or Settings > System > About Phone. If you don't see IMEI listed, try scrolling down within the About Phone section — it's often near the bottom.

Some Samsung phones also display the IMEI under Settings > Device Care > Device Information or a similar submenu. If you're unsure where to look, the dialer code *#06# is always faster.

Checking the physical phone and packaging

If your Samsung phone won't turn on or the screen is broken, you can find the IMEI printed on the device itself or on the original packaging. Look on the back of the phone under the battery (if the battery is removable) or on a sticker inside the SIM card tray. Some Samsung models also print the IMEI on the box or on the receipt from the retailer.

If you've lost the phone and don't have the box, contact your carrier — they have your IMEI recorded in their system and can tell you the number over the phone. You'll need to verify your identity with your account information.

Getting your IMEI from your carrier

If you can't access your phone and don't have the original packaging, your carrier (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, or another network) has your IMEI on file. Call customer service, provide your phone number or account number, and ask them to read your IMEI to you. They may ask security questions to verify you're the account holder.

This is especially useful if your phone is lost or stolen and you need to report it when ready. Your carrier can block the IMEI right away, which prevents anyone else from using the phone on their network.

What to do once you have your IMEI

Once you've found your IMEI, write it down and store it somewhere safe — a notes app on your computer, a password manager, or a physical notebook. Don't share it publicly or with people you don't trust, because someone with your IMEI can potentially unlock or reprogram your phone through certain services.

If your phone is lost or stolen, contact your carrier when ready with your IMEI and ask them to blacklist it. This prevents the phone from connecting to any carrier's network, even if the thief inserts a different SIM card. You should also report the theft to local police and file a report with your carrier in writing.

If you're selling your phone, provide the IMEI to the buyer so they can verify the phone isn't blacklisted or reported stolen. If you're sending your phone for warranty repair, Samsung or your carrier may ask for the IMEI to look up your device history.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between IMEI and IMSI?

IMEI identifies the phone itself; IMSI identifies the SIM card and your account on the carrier's network. You need the IMEI to report a stolen phone or check if it's blacklisted. The IMSI is tied to your carrier contract and changes if you switch carriers or SIM cards.

Can I change my Samsung phone's IMEI?

No. The IMEI is written into your phone's hardware and cannot be legally changed. Attempting to reprogram it is illegal in most countries and will void your warranty. If someone claims they can change your IMEI, they're either lying or offering an illegal service.

What should I do if my IMEI shows as blacklisted?

A blacklisted IMEI means the phone was reported stolen, has unpaid bills, or was involved in fraud. Contact your carrier to find out why it's blacklisted. If you bought the phone used, you may have a dispute with the seller. If you own the phone legitimately, your carrier may be able to remove the blacklist if the original issue is resolved.

Do I need my IMEI to unlock my Samsung phone?

No. Your IMEI is not the same as your PIN, pattern, or password. Unlocking your phone requires your Google account, Samsung account, or PIN — not your IMEI. However, your IMEI is used by carriers to verify the phone is legitimate before allowing it on their network.

Will my IMEI change if I factory reset my Samsung?

No. A factory reset erases your data and settings but does not change your IMEI. The IMEI is permanent hardware information and cannot be altered by software changes.