What is "IMEI" Number on Mobile phone and why it is so important?

"IMEI" number stands for The International Mobile Equipment Identity.It is a number unique to every GSM and UMTS mobile phone. It is usually found printed on the phone underneath the battery and can also be found by dialing the sequence *#06# into the phone.
The IMEI number is used by the GSM network to verify valid devices and therefore can be used to stop a stolen phone from accessing the network. For example, if a mobile phone is stolen, the owner can call his or her network provider and instruct them to "ban" the phone using its IMEI number. This renders the phone useless, regardless of whether the phone's SIM is changed. Many chinese phone does not contains the IMEI number and it is avaiable in grey market. But beware to buy these phones because these are not genuine phone.
The IMEI number is an electronic fingerprint transmitted every time a phone is used, which reveals the identity of the mobile handset.
So Whenever you buy a phone, note down the IMEI number in your diary . It will help you a lot whenever your mobile phone stolen.

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