Track Phone Using IMEI Online Free or With Dedicated Applications

Losing a phone can be a nightmare because your mobile device contains important information and data. Not only this, but when you lost your device and if it is grabbed by the wrong person then the consequences would be hazardous. But all thanks to technology, technology plays a vital role in streamlining functionalities. 

The era of technology everywhere makes us fortunate enough. Let's see how:

IMEI! What is This?

The IMEI number is usually on a sticker placed behind the battery. You can track your phone using its IMEI number. IMEI stands for International Mobile Equipment Identity. IMEI is a unique 15-digit number that usually identifies mobile devices on the back or can be accessed by dialing *#06#. 

IMEI is a powerful tool that will help you find out your stolen or lost phone. This detailed article will guide you through how IMEI tracking works and how to use it. 

How IT Functions?

IMEI number is assigned to every smartphone. It works similarly to VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) for a car. It works when the device is connected to a cellular network and if not it will not work. Because its functionality includes sending signals. What about those signals? There are several tracking tools that catch up signals to locate your device. 

It's important for your phone to be turned on in order for IMEI tracking to work. The device should be connected to a cellular network. Via signals, when the device is located then the tracker shows the exact location of your device on the map.

In contrast, a variety of online IMEI tracker free are available nowadays that works the same. Amongst many of them, a few tools are free to use but some might ask you to pay for more advanced features.

Track the Phone Using IMEI Tracker App.

You can track your phone using IMEI online for free. For that purpose here are the steps to take:

• Step 1: Download and install any of the IMEI trackers. You can also use the “IMEI tracker-Find my device” application.
• Step 2:  Grant permission to access the application.
• Step 3: Enter “phone numbers” (one or two). Just make sure you are inputting numbers of trusted members, and they could be from family or friends.

Why do they ask for contact numbers?:

If any day you encounter a situation where your phone is stolen or missing. When a new sim is inserted in your device then the provided numbers will receive an SMS notification regarding the same. The notification also includes the IMEI number and device location.

• Step 4: Now from the provided numbers you can track your device’s exact location easily. 
• Step 5: Send “SMS” or “command” i.e., “get the Lost phone” by using the other devices to your device. (Optional).

Alternative Online Ways to Track the Phone

Google IMEI tracker online is best if you don’t want to install one more app. Amongst many the two best online tools are:

Online IMEI Tracker

The IMEI tracker free is an online tool that is available for free. This also works similarly to tracking apps. With an IMEI number, you can get real-time location updates and accurate results. There is no complexity involved in its usage. To use it, follow these steps:

• Step 1: Click here, to land on its website.
• Step 2: Enter your valid “IMEI number” and select the “country” where your device was first registered.
• Step 3: In the last, hit on the “Track Me” button. 

Now you can go through the status of the device and find out whether your device is stolen or lost. You will also learn about your device location

Use CEIR

The next trustworthy tool is CEIR (Central Equipment Identity Registry). This is a government portal and a free online tracking tool. This tool provides real-time location updates by using Google Maps. Here are the steps to use it:

• Step 1: Click here, and visit its website.
• Step 2: There, click on the “Block Stolen/Lost Mobile” option. 
• Step 3: Next, you have to input “device information”, “lost information”, “mobile owner personal information”, and “mobile number for OTP”.
• Step 4:  wait until you get the “Request ID number”. Once received, use this number to unblock and IMEI number. 
• Step 5: Then you can learn about the status of your device.
• Step 6: Once you are done with submitting your request, the network operators blacklist the IMEI number. This is to make sure that the device won’t be misused.

The Legality and Ethics of IMEI Tracking

The legality and ethics depend on the jurisdiction you are in and how you are using the tracking tools. Those factors are:

Legality

• Authorization: Tracking should be practiced with proper authorization which means it's important for you to be an owner.
• Privacy laws: Everyone is aware of the fact that a few countries and regions contain strict laws for privacy and data protection while accessing the site.  So make sure to adhere to them without any violation.
• Illegal Use: Using IMEI for illegal purposes like tracking without the owner's consent or stalking someone can lead you to deal with legal consequences.

Ethics

• Informed Consent: Ensure that you have consent from the device owner before tracking. 
• Purpose and Justification: Use it for legitimate reasons. Misusing this technology is unethical.
• Data Protection: The data stored and collected while tracking should be used in accordance with data protection laws. 

Final Words

IMEI tracker free online applications are the most effective way to tackle situations like lost or stolen phones. With the outline tracking tools, you can locate your device. In addition, Google Maps can also be used to track devices in real-time. But it works if the device is linked to the Google account. 

Challenge the situation and thieves by using the IMEI tracking process. And if you are not aware of how it works, then look no further than this detailed article.