IMEI Check Before Buying a Phone on Craigslist

Craigslist can offer great local deals, but payments are usually cash and final. There is no buyer protection, so verifying the phone before you hand over money is critical.

Demand the IMEI upfront

A legitimate Craigslist seller should have no problem sharing the IMEI. Run the Full IMEI Check before you even schedule a meeting.

Common Craigslist red flags

• Prices far below market value.
• Seller refuses to provide IMEI or meet in a public place.
• Phone is listed as "IC locked" or "for parts."
• Seller pressures you to pay a deposit before meeting.

In-person verification

Dial *#06# and compare to the IMEI you checked. Test Face ID/Touch ID, call a number, and insert your SIM. For iPhones, also verify the iCloud Activation Lock is off.

Bottom line

Craigslist is high-reward, high-risk. An IMEI check before the meeting and in-person verification at the meeting are your only protections.