How To Track Lost Iphone 5 With Imei Number

Is it possible to change the IMEI number of a cell phone

All mobile phones can be tracked and located with the help of a unique ID called IMEI number. The majority of the users are not aware of the IMEI number and its use, but knowing about it helps a lot in situations like when your phone is lost or stolen or tracking the GPS location of the mobile. The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is the unique identity number of your phone, which is allocated by global industry body GSMA and bodies authorized by it. Whenever you purchase a new phone, you can check the IMEI number behind the battery or on the box in which the handset is packed. It is very important and useful to note down and keep this number safe as it could be used in the future if your phone ever gets lost or misplaced.

The government has made tampering of IMEI numbers a punishable offence. However, thieves change the IMEI number of stolen mobiles using a 'flasher'. A flasher is a small device that helps connect the handset to a computer and allows the user to modify the IMEI number. However, it is not easy to get a flasher and it is not legal to use it to alter IMEI number.

What happens if I change my IMEI number?
You will get into trouble if you change your IMEI number to another one which belongs to a stolen phone as tampering of IMEI number is a punishable act. Moreover, the network operators may get to know and block your IMEI number if it is not the original one.
Does the IMEI number change after a factory reset?
No, IMEI number does not change after factory reset. Since the IMEI number is a part of the hardware, therefore, any reset that is software-based will not be able to change the IMEI of your phone.
Is giving the IMEI number to a stranger dangerous?
It is advised not to provide your phone's IMEI number to anyone. By providing the same to a stranger can make you lose your phones' usability and it might be used for malicious purposes. Moreover, you can give the IMEI number only to the person who has paid for the respective phone.
How can I find the IMEI number of my lost cell phone?
You can easily find the IMEI number of your lost or stolen mobile on its box. You need to check out the sticker pasted on the box that has product information on it such as the model number and serial number. The 15-digit number above the barcode is the IMEI number.