If you’re buying a used iPhone, checking its IMEI to see if it’s iCloud clean or lost/stolen is crucial. A locked iPhone can turn into an expensive paperweight, leaving you frustrated and out of pocket.
In this guide, we’ll explain:
✔ How to check if an iPhone is iCloud clean
✔ What “Lost Mode” means and how to avoid it
✔ Why IMEI checks are a must before buying a used iPhone
✔ A free tool to verify iPhone status instantly
Let’s dive in!
Why You MUST Check iPhone IMEI Before Buying
Imagine buying a “great deal” iPhone, only to find out it’s iCloud locked, blacklisted, or marked as lost. You won’t be able to:
Activate the phone (if iCloud locked)
Use cellular networks (if blacklisted)
Sell it later (loses value if locked)
That’s why an IMEI check is your best defense against scams.
🔍 What Does “iCloud Clean” Mean?
An iPhone is iCloud clean if:
✅ No Activation Lock (Find My iPhone is OFF)
✅ Not blacklisted (reported lost/stolen)
✅ Not carrier-locked (can be used with any SIM)
If the iPhone is not clean, you risk buying a useless device.
How to Check if an iPhone is iCloud Clean
1. Find the iPhone’s IMEI Number
You can get the IMEI by:
Dialing *#06# on the iPhone
Going to Settings > General > About
Checking the SIM tray or back cover (older models)
2. Use a Free IMEI Checker Tool
Instead of guessing, use a free, reliable tool like:
🔗 Free Apple IMEI / Serial Check
Just enter the IMEI, and you’ll see:
iCloud status (Clean/Locked)
Blacklist status (Clean/Lost/Stolen)
Carrier lock status (Locked/Unlocked)
This takes seconds and saves you from buying a bad iPhone.
What If the iPhone is iCloud Locked or Lost?
🚨 iCloud Locked (Activation Lock ON)
This means the iPhone is still linked to the previous owner’s Apple ID. You can’t use it unless they remove it.
❌ Avoid sellers who say:
🚨 Lost Mode (Reported Stolen)
If the iPhone is in Lost Mode, it’s blocked by Apple, and the real owner can track it. Never buy such a phone!
🚨 Blacklisted (Banned by Carriers)
A blacklisted iPhone won’t work on most networks. Even if it’s iCloud clean, you’ll have no cellular service.
How to Avoid Buying a Locked or Stolen iPhone
1. Always Check IMEI Before Paying
Use the Free Apple IMEI / Serial Check to verify the iPhone’s status.
2. Meet in a Safe Place & Test the Phone
3. Ask for Proof of Purchase
A legit seller should provide:
If they refuse, walk away.
