IMEI Number is a unique combination of numbers that are assigned to every device by the device manufacturer, which allows the GSM Networks to verify the device.
Now, if you have bought a device and the IMEI number doesn’t match with the device, it could be due to various reasons, and I will tell you about them. Let’s dive right into it.
Here is an article on my website that you must read, its about How to Check Mobile Quality and Brand by IMEI Number?
Why Does My IMEI Number Not Match? | What’s the Cause?
Normally, if you buy a smartphone or any device from a trusted source and you look up the IMEI Number, the IMEI number will match with the device. However, if the IMEI number doesn’t match with the device, it could be due to the following reasons.
1. Refurbished Smartphone
One of the main reasons why the IMEI Number and device don’t match is due to the Refurbished Smartphone.
Many small companies often tear up the broken smartphones and use the working parts to assemble smartphones, and they sell them in the market as Refurbished devices.
The problem with Refurbished smartphones is that as they are using different parts, there are high chances of defects.
On top of that, as they are using different parts, there are great chances that IMEI details won’t match with the device you have.
2. Fake Device
Another possible reason why your IMEI number doesn’t match with the device is that you possibly have a fake device.
Many small companies usually make fake devices with Fake IMEI numbers to make profits, and if you get a fake device, there are high chances that the IMEI number won’t match because it’s fake.
3. Box Mix-up
If you have bought a second-hand device from a shop and the IMEI number on the box doesn’t match with the device, then it could be due to a mix-up.
As these shops usually have many smartphones of similar models, sometimes the boxes get to mix up, and it can cause the issue.
4. Company’s Negligence
If you are completely sure that you have bought a smartphone from a trusted source and there are no chances that your device is refurbished or fake, then there are chances that the IMEI number is not matching due to negligence which is very rare.
This is because most companies have very strict quality control where they make sure that the errors like these don’t happen but still can happen.
Why Does My IMEI Number Not Match? | What’s To Do?
Once it’s established that the IMEI number details don’t match with the device you have, then you should do the following things depending on your situation.
If you think that you have got a refurbished device and the IMEI number doesn’t match, then the first thing you should do is to contact the seller and claim your refund. It’s important that you have receipt of the transaction, as they often use it as an excuse to refuse the claim. So, make sure that you have the receipt so that you are rock solid on your claim. Once you have your money back, get your phone from a trusted retailer or distributer.
Similarly, if you think that you have got a fake device, you should contact the seller and claim your refund. If you have bought it from a street vendor, there are great chances that you won’t be able to find that person, and the only thing you can do is to launch a police complaint as selling fake smartphones is fraud which is a punishable offense in many countries including the USA.
If you bought a second-hand device and you think that it’s a box mix-up, you can contact the shop and change your box. If they don’t have the box and give you a lame excuse, you should claim the refund as there are chances that you have got the stolen smartphone.
Remember that, whenever you buy a second smartphone, always have the permanent address of the seller along with contact details so that if anything goes south, you should have proof of your innocence and the contact of the person who sold you the device.
Last but not least, if you think that you have bought the device from a legit source and the IMEI is not matching due to an issue on the company’s end, you should contact the company and explain your case. Once you file the complaint, they will launch the investigation and will probably replace the device for you if you have the receipt.
If they fail to do that and you still think that they are at fault, you can contact the consumer court and get your money back. On top of that, you can also sue them for causing duress but make sure that you have proofs to back your claim. For example, make sure that you have bought the device from a legit source and have proof of ownership.
Frequently Asked Questions [ FAQs ]
Why Does my IMEI Number Not Matching?
It could be due to many reasons, such as fake devices, refurbished devices, fake IMEI, and more. Whatever is the reason, if the IMEI doesn’t match, contact the seller and claim a refund.
Why Does My IMEI Number Keep Changing?
IMEI Number is a unique number that is encoded deep into software, and it doesn’t change by itself. So, if it keeps changing itself, it means that someone is tampering with your device. So, make sure that you don’t leave your device unattended and delete any suspicious apps from your smartphone.
Can IMEI Be Changed?
Yes, IMEI numbers can be changed, and it’s not illegal to do it in many countries. However, it’s a long process and if you want to do it, follow the guide where I have explained the complete process of changing the IMEI Number.
Conclusion
That’s all, folks. In this guide, I explained the possible reasons why your IMEI doesn’t match with the device and what you can do about it.
If you have any questions, please let me know in the comments. Also, did you know that the IMEI number can provide details about the quality of your device? It does, and if you want to check the quality of your device, check this guide.
As a professional trainer and a gadget lover, I’ve spent a lot of money and time buying wearable activity trackers, smartwatches, and gadgets, and checking them out. My site is focused on helping you with your activity tracking and smart technology journey. I try to provide the most helpful updated content on this subject. Hopefully, you will love my blogs and be a regular around here.