Inspection progress

0 of 22 checks complete

IMEI matches the deviceDial *#06# and compare the on-screen IMEI with the number printed under Settings and on the original box. All three should match exactly.Tip:Two SIM slots? There will be two IMEI numbers — check both.
IMEI is not blacklisted or flaggedThis check shows whether the device has been reported lost, stolen, or blocked by a network or law-enforcement database. Nothing found is not a clearance.Red flag:If a check returns a match in the records we check, do not buy — walk away.
Original bill / invoice availableAsk for the purchase invoice. It proves ownership, confirms the purchase date for warranty, and should carry the same IMEI.
Original box and IMEI sticker presentThe retail box carries an IMEI/serial sticker. Match it to the phone. A missing box isn't fatal, but it weakens proof of ownership.

iCloud / Google account removedOn iPhone, Find My iPhone must be OFF and no Apple ID signed in. On Android, no Google account should remain (this triggers Factory Reset Protection).Red flag:Activation Lock or a lingering Google account makes the device unusable after reset. Never pay until it's cleared in front of you.
Factory reset completed in front of youAsk the seller to erase all content and settings while you watch, then confirm the phone boots to the first-time setup screen.
Not carrier / network lockedInsert your own SIM and confirm it gets signal and can make a call. A network-locked phone only works on one operator.

Battery health is acceptableOn iPhone check Settings › Battery › Battery Health (aim for 85%+). On Android use the dialer code or a trusted health app. Below ~80% expect a replacement soon.
Charges and holds chargePlug it in — it should charge over cable and (if supported) wirelessly without heating up excessively or dropping the connection.
No lag, overheating or random restartsOpen the camera, a heavy app and switch between apps. Watch for stutter, sudden warmth, or unexpected reboots.

No cracks, chips or deep scratchesTilt the screen against light to reveal hairline cracks and scratches that are invisible head-on.
No dead pixels, lines or burn-inShow a full-white then full-black image. Look for stuck pixels, vertical lines, discolouration, or faint 'ghost' images (burn-in on OLED).
Touch responds across the whole screenOpen the dialer or notes app and drag a finger to every corner and edge. Every area should register without dead zones.

Frame and back are intactCheck the corners, edges and back glass for dents, deep scuffs or separation that suggests a previous drop or repair.
Buttons, ports and speakers workTest power, volume and silent switch; the charging port; and play audio to check both speakers and the earpiece. Test the headphone jack if present.
No sign of water damageCheck the SIM-tray liquid indicator — it should be white, not red/pink. Watch for corrosion, fog under the camera glass, or a musty smell.Red flag:A tripped water indicator means liquid exposure. Faults can appear weeks later — discount heavily or skip.

All cameras and flash workTake a photo and video with every lens (front, wide, ultra-wide, tele) and fire the flash. Check focus and that lenses are clear, not foggy.
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, mobile data & GPS workConnect to Wi-Fi, pair a Bluetooth device, load a page over mobile data, and open Maps to confirm a GPS lock.
Fingerprint / face unlock worksEnrol a fingerprint or face after the reset and confirm it unlocks reliably. Faulty sensors are costly to repair.

Warranty status checkedUse the brand's official site or support app with the IMEI/serial to see if any manufacturer warranty remains.
Seller identity and contact recordedNote the seller's name and a contact you have checked. A record helps both sides if the device is questioned later.
Price is fair for the conditionCompare against the going rate for the same model, storage and condition. A price that's too good to be true usually is.

Use your judgement

This checklist is general guidance, not professional or legal advice. Always meet in a safe, public place and keep a record of the seller and the device.

Want an instant verification report on any device?

Create a free account