While it is technically possible to track a phone using its IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity), there are a number of ethical and legal issues to take into account. Here's how the process works, along with the entities involved and their roles.
What is IMEI?
- The IMEI is a unique 15-digit number assigned to every mobile device.
- It helps identify a device on a mobile network, irrespective of the SIM card used.
- It can be found by dialing *#06# on most phones or in the device settings.
Methods to Track via IMEI
1. Contact Your Service Provider:
- Report the IMEI to your mobile carrier along with a police complaint number if the phone is lost or stolen.
- The carrier can track the phone's activity and location on their network.
2. Involve Law Enforcement:
- File a report with the police.
- Authorities can work with carriers to locate or block the phone.
3. Government Portals (Region-Specific):
Some countries, like India, offer portals (e.g., CEIR - Central Equipment Identity Register) for blocking or tracking IMEI-flagged phones.
Limitations of IMEI Tracking
- Blocked IMEIs: If a phone is blacklisted, it won't connect to networks but may still be used offline.
- IMEI Spoofing: Hackers can modify the IMEI, making tracking difficult