
Use this simple IMEI check before you buy or sell a used phone — and avoid blacklisted or duplicate devices
Want to check IMEI on Sanchar Saathi before you buy a phone or sell your old one? Do it. It takes 1–2 minutes and can save you from buying a blacklisted, duplicate, or already-in-use device.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- how to find your IMEI,
- how to check IMEI on Sanchar Saathi using KYM 14422 and the CEIR web portal, and
- what to do if the result looks risky.
Selling your phone? Use a safer channel:
- InstaCash Doorstep: https://getinstacash.in/
- InstaCash Prime (ship-in): https://getinstacash.in/prime/
Quick navigation
- What is IMEI and why it matters
- How to find your IMEI
- 3 ways to check IMEI on Sanchar Saathi (KYM 14422 + web + app)
- How to read the result (what to avoid)
- When selling: where IMEI check fits
- Sanchar Saathi extras: block lost phone + report fraud (Chakshu)
- FAQs
1) What is IMEI (and why you should check it)
IMEI is a unique identity number for a mobile device. In simple terms, it helps networks and authorities identify a handset.
When you check IMEI on Sanchar Saathi, you reduce the risk of buying or selling a phone that is:
- blacklisted (often linked to lost/stolen reports),
- duplicate/cloned, or
- already in use (the same IMEI showing up on another phone).
If any of these appear, avoid the deal.
2) How to find your IMEI (2 quick methods)
Before you check IMEI on Sanchar Saathi, get the IMEI number.
Method A — Dial code
- Dial
*#06#on your phone.
Method B — Packaging / bill
- IMEI is often printed on the phone box and may be present on the invoice.
Tip: Dual-SIM phones may show two IMEIs. Check both.
3) 3 ways to check IMEI on Sanchar Saathi (CEIR)
You can check IMEI on Sanchar Saathi / CEIR using SMS, web, or the KYM app.
Option 1 — SMS: KYM 14422 (fastest)
- Create a new SMS
- Type:
KYM <15-digit IMEI> - Send it to 14422
You’ll receive the IMEI status by SMS.
Option 2 — Web portal (OTP-based)
- Open the CEIR/Sanchar Saathi IMEI verification page
- Enter your mobile number and verify OTP
- Enter the 15-digit IMEI
Useful links:
- Sanchar Saathi / CEIR portal: https://ceir.sancharsaathi.gov.in/
- IMEI verification page (may ask OTP): https://ceir.sancharsaathi.gov.in/Device/SancharSaathiKym.jsp
Option 3 — KYM app
If you prefer an app-based flow, use the official KYM app (listed by DoT resources).
4) How to read the result (what to avoid)
When you check IMEI on Sanchar Saathi, treat these results as deal-breakers:
- Blacklisted → avoid buying; for selling, expect rejection or extra checks.
- Duplicate → avoid buying; high risk of cloning/counterfeit.
- Already in use → avoid; could indicate IMEI misuse or mismatch.
If you still want to proceed (not recommended)
At minimum, ask for:
- original invoice/bill,
- matching box IMEI,
- seller’s ownership proof, and
- a second IMEI check in front of you.
5) Where IMEI checks fit when you are selling a phone
If you are selling your phone, do this once before listing or booking a pickup:
- Check IMEI on Sanchar Saathi (KYM 14422 is fastest)
- Back up and wipe data (factory reset + sign out)
- Prepare a small evidence pack (photos + video)
➡️ If you want a full checklist, link this post to Blog 1:
- Sell old phone safely in India (checklist): https://getinstacash.in/blog/sell-old-phone-safely-india/
The conversion-heavy, low-hassle route
If you don’t want to negotiate with strangers or handle payment risks:
- InstaCash Doorstep: quote → pickup → handover at your location → payout
Start: https://getinstacash.in/ - InstaCash Prime (ship-in): secure ship-in trade-in with tracking and verification
Explore: https://getinstacash.in/prime/
Need help choosing?
6) Sanchar Saathi extras you should know
Sanchar Saathi is more than just IMEI checks.
A) Block a lost/stolen phone (CEIR)
If you lose your phone, you can submit a request to block it through CEIR/Sanchar Saathi. You typically need:
- a police report copy, and
- an identity proof.
Start here: https://sancharsaathi.gov.in/Home/ceir-services.jsp
B) Report suspected fraud calls/SMS/WhatsApp (Chakshu)
If you receive suspicious “KYC update / bank / courier / fake customer care” messages or calls, you can report them on Chakshu.
Report here: https://www.sancharsaathi.gov.in/sfc/
If you have already lost money, report it quickly via 1930 or https://cybercrime.gov.in/.
FAQs (more)
1) What is the best way to check IMEI on Sanchar Saathi?
The fastest is KYM <IMEI> to 14422. For detailed verification, use the web portal.
2) Should I check IMEI before buying a used phone?
Yes. Always. If the IMEI status shows blacklisted, duplicate, or already in use, avoid the purchase.
3) What if my phone has two IMEIs?
That’s common for dual-SIM devices. Check both IMEIs.
4) Can I sell a phone if the IMEI is blacklisted?
It’s risky. Most platforms will reject it. If you believe it’s a mistake, check official guidance on Sanchar Saathi/CEIR.
Conclusion: Check IMEI before you buy or sell
Before you buy or sell any used phone, check IMEI on Sanchar Saathi. It is quick, free, and reduces the biggest risks.
Ready to sell with InstaCash?
- Doorstep: https://getinstacash.in/
- Prime (ship-in): https://getinstacash.in/prime/
- Support: https://getinstacash.in/customerSupport.php
References (Official)
- Sanchar Saathi: https://www.sancharsaathi.gov.in/
- CEIR portal: https://ceir.sancharsaathi.gov.in/
- Chakshu: https://www.sancharsaathi.gov.in/sfc/
- Cybercrime portal: https://cybercrime.gov.in/
- Apple — What to do before you sell/trade: https://support.apple.com/en-asia/109511
- Android — How to reset an Android device: https://www.android.com/intl/en_in/articles/how-to-reset-android-device/

You must be logged in to post a comment.