How To Hide IMEI Number In 2024? Should I Do It?

International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) is a 15-digit unique number and every smartphone has a unique IMEI number. It’s like your smartphone’s fingerprint and network carriers use this number to validate your mobile device and give access to their network. In some cases, law enforcement agencies and emergency responders can also use it to track the person.

It’s very important and sensitive data and if someone has access to it, they can use it to commit fraud and other illegal activities which can land you in serious trouble.

Now you must be wondering, how can I find and hide it? In this comprehensive guide, I’ll show you how you can find and hide your IMEI number in 2024. Let’s get started.

Check out my post that covers the question: How to Block a stolen iPhone with IMEI Number?

How To Hide IMEI Number On Android In 2024?

Android Smartphones come with tons of ways that you can use to find the IMEI Number. In this section, I’ll explain the different ways you can use to find an IMEI Number, and I’ll also explain how you can stop others from using these ways to find your IMEI Number.

• Using Code – One of the easiest ways to do this on Android smartphones is to use *#06#. If someone dials this code on your device, they will be able to know your IMEI. So, if you don’t want it to happen, never allow anyone to access your smartphone.
• Using SIM Card Tray – Most modern smartphones don’t come with an IMEI Number on SIM Card Tray, but some Android phones have it on SIM Card Tray. So, the simple way to stop others from using this method to find your IMEI is to never allow anyone to access your smartphone.
• Using Settings – If someone has access to your smartphone, they can also find the IMEI Number of your device from the settings. So, if you don’t want anyone to use this method, never allow anyone to access your settings.
• Using Phone’s Box – One of the simplest ways to find the IMEI Number is to use the Phone’s Box. Smartphone’s Box comes with an IMEI Number on the backside, and if you don’t like it to happen, you can use a permanent marker on top of it. However, make sure that you note down the IMEI number and save it in a secure place.

Here is an article on my website that you must read, it’s about How to get IMEI Number on iPhone & iPad if locked

How To Hide IMEI Number On iPhone In 2024?

Like Android, iPhone also offers a variety of ways to find IMEI Numbers, and if you want to hide your IMEI Number from others, it’s important that you know these ways.

In this way, you will be able to know how to stop others from using these methods. In this section, I’ll share the methods that you can use to find the IMEI Number on your iPhone and how to hide your IMEI from others.

• Using Code – Like Android, Apple also allows users to find their IMEI Number using *#06# Code. If you don’t want anyone to find your IMEI number using this method, don’t allow anyone to access your device.
• Using SIM Card Tray – If you have iPhone 6s Plus or later versions of the iPhones, you can find the IMEI number on the SIM Card Tray. So, never allow anyone to take out the SIM Card Tray of your iPhone as they can use it to know your IMEI number.
• Using Back of the iPhone – If you have iPhone 5, 5C, 5S, SE (1^st Generation), iPhone 6 Plus, or 6, then you can find the IMEI number on the back of your device. If you don’t want anyone to know your IMEI using this method, you can use Permanent Marker or Sticker on top of the IMEI number.
• Using iPhone’s Box – iPhones these days come in a very sleek box which also comes with IMEI on the back. So, if you don’t want anyone to find your IMEI using the Box, you can use a permanent marker or Sticker on the Box. However, if you intend to sell your iPhone later, you should use a Sticker as using a Permanent marker can compromise the resale value of your device.

Also Read: How to know if IMEI is Blacklisted, Unlocked, or Fake?

How to Disable IMEI Tracking

IMEI tracking is a security feature designed to help track and recover lost or stolen mobile devices. However, there are legitimate reasons why some users might want to disable IMEI tracking, such as privacy concerns or avoiding surveillance. It’s important to note that disabling IMEI tracking can have legal implications and may affect your ability to use network services. Here’s a detailed guide on how to disable IMEI tracking:

1. Understand the Risks and Legalities

Before attempting to disable IMEI tracking, it’s crucial to understand the risks and legal implications. In many countries, tampering with the IMEI number is illegal and can result in fines or imprisonment. Additionally, disabling IMEI tracking can void your warranty and make it difficult to receive service from your carrier.

2. Backup Your Data

Always start by backing up your data. Disabling IMEI tracking might involve actions that could result in data loss, so ensure all your important files, contacts, and settings are safely stored.

3. Root or Jailbreak Your Device

Disabling IMEI tracking often requires root access on Android devices or jailbreaking on iOS devices. This process gives you full control over your device’s operating system but also makes your device more vulnerable to security risks.

• Android: Rooting an Android device involves using tools like Magisk or SuperSU. Each device has a specific method for rooting, so research thoroughly.
• iOS: Jailbreaking an iPhone can be done using tools like Checkra1n or Unc0ver. Ensure you follow a reliable guide specific to your iOS version.

4. Use Specialized Software

Once you have root or jailbreak access, you can use specialized software to change or disable the IMEI number. Some popular tools include:

• XPOSED IMEI Changer (Android): This module allows you to change the IMEI number temporarily. Note that altering the IMEI number can lead to network issues.
• ZiPhone (iOS): This tool was historically used for jailbreaking and modifying the IMEI number on older iPhones. It’s less common today due to advancements in iOS security.

5. Modify System Files

For those with technical expertise, manually editing system files can disable IMEI tracking. This approach is highly risky and not recommended for casual users.

• Android: Access the Engineering Mode by dialing specific codes (varies by manufacturer) and navigating to the CDS Information menu. Here, you can edit the IMEI number.
• iOS: Use SSH access to navigate to the appropriate system files, where you can modify the IMEI number. This requires deep knowledge of iOS file structures.

6. Use a Faraday Cage or IMEI-Shielding Device

If you’re looking for a less technical approach, consider using a Faraday cage or IMEI-shielding device. These physical methods block all radio signals, effectively preventing any tracking. However, this also disables all phone functions like calls, texts, and the internet.

7. Airplane Mode and No-SIM Operation

Another simpler method is to keep your phone in Airplane Mode and remove the SIM card. While this doesn’t change or disable the IMEI, it prevents the device from connecting to any network that could track it. This is a temporary solution and limits the functionality of your device.

8. Consult with Experts

If you’re determined to disable IMEI tracking, consult with cybersecurity experts or professionals. They can provide tailored advice and ensure you’re aware of all potential risks.

While disabling IMEI tracking can enhance privacy, it comes with significant risks and potential legal consequences. Always weigh the pros and cons carefully and consider less extreme measures to protect your privacy. If you decide to proceed, take all necessary precautions to safeguard your data and device.

Why People Want to Hide Their IMEI Number

The International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number is a unique identifier for every mobile device. While it’s designed to enhance security and help in situations such as theft, there are several reasons why someone might want to hide their IMEI number:

1. Privacy Concerns: In an era where data privacy is paramount, individuals might want to hide their IMEI to prevent tracking or eavesdropping by malicious entities or even governmental surveillance.
2. Avoiding Targeted Ads: Companies can use IMEI numbers to track users’ habits and preferences, leading to targeted advertising. Hiding the IMEI can be a measure to avoid this.
3. Selling Devices: Some opt to hide their IMEI when selling their device to prevent the new owner from accessing their history or using the IMEI for nefarious purposes.
4. Using Stolen Devices: Unethically, individuals who possess stolen devices might want to hide the IMEI to avoid detection and continue using the device.

Pros and Risks of Hiding Your IMEI Number

Pros:

• Increased Privacy: By hiding your IMEI, you can protect your privacy from entities that might misuse it.
• Prevention of Tracking: It can potentially prevent your device from being tracked by unauthorized parties.
• Peace of Mind: For those concerned about security, it can offer peace of mind knowing that their device identifier is not easily accessible or misused.

Risks:

• Legal Risks: Tampering with your IMEI is illegal in many jurisdictions. If caught, you could face fines or other penalties.
• Warranty Void: Manufacturers may void your warranty if they discover you’ve altered your device’s IMEI, as it’s considered tampering.
• Service Issues: Some network services and features may rely on the IMEI. Hiding it can lead to disruptions or loss of services.
• Ethical Concerns: It can be considered unethical, especially if done with the intent to deceive or conceal illegal activities.

Should You Hide Your IMEI Number?

Given the legal and ethical implications, hiding your IMEI number is generally not advisable. The risks far outweigh the benefits, with potential legal ramifications and the possibility of service disruptions. Additionally, the ethical considerations cannot be ignored, especially in contexts where hiding the IMEI could be construed as facilitating or concealing illegal activities.

For those concerned about privacy, it’s better to explore legal and ethical means of protecting personal data. This can include using encrypted services, being cautious about sharing information online, and understanding and utilizing the privacy settings on your devices. Remember, while privacy is a right, how we choose to protect it must align with legal and ethical standards.

Does Hiding IMEI Make The Phone Untraceable?

Many people think that if they hide the IMEI of their devices, it will make their devices untraceable, which is not true.

If you hide the IMEI Number of your devices, normal people won’t be able to know it, and hence they can’t use it to track you.

However, if any authority wants to track you, they can track your phone because the IMEI of your device will be linked with your phone, and once they know your number, they will be able to track your location, calls, and messages.

How To Hide IMEI Number From Being Tracked By Police?

If you want to Hide an IMEI Number from being tracked by Police, it’s a very complex task, but it’s not impossible. I’ll explain it using the different scenarios.

If the Police decide to track you, they have many ways to find and track you. For example, if they know your IMEI Number, which they can find using the database that has details of the owners of smartphones, and once they have your IMEI Number, they can look it up on the Network Carrier’s database and find the number which is linked to your IMEI Number.

Thus, once they have a number, they will be able to track you. Similarly, if they have your Phone Number, which they can easily find using the Network Carrier’s Database, and once they have your number, they will be able to know which device you are using and IMEI Number. In both scenarios, they will be able to track you.

If you don’t want the Police to track you, you can use buy a burner smartphone or a smartphone using fake identification. On top of that, you will also have to use a number that is not associated with you. In this way, Police won’t be able to track you as they don’t have any means to track you.

However, it’s important to note here that many departments use advanced Software and technologies to track people, and if you use any buzzword in your call or message, it can be flagged by the system, and they can find you. So, in a nutshell, you can use this method to stop Police and other law enforcement agencies from tracking you for a few hours or days, but it’s not a permanent solution.

Conclusion

IMEI Numbers are sensitive data and if it lands in the wrong hands, they can use it to commit fraud and other unlawful activities.

So, you must hide it from other people, and in this guide, you learn how you can hide your IMEI number on Android and iPhones. 

I hope that you found this guide useful and if you have any questions, please let me know in the comments. Also, if you want to know what happens if someone has your IMEI number check this guide where I’ve explained how others can know your IMEI number and how they can misuse it.