The Difference between locked and blacklisted iPhones is crucial to understand before purchasing an iPhone. When buying an iPhone, two of the most important things to consider are whether the iPhone is locked or blacklisted. Knowing the difference between these two terms can affect the phone’s functionality and your ability to use it with different carriers. In this article, we will explore the differences between a locked and a blacklisted iPhone and provide information on what you can do if you have either one.
Table of Contents
- What is a Locked iPhone?
- How to Check if Your iPhone is Locked?
- What is a Blacklisted iPhone?
- Why an iPhone Gets Blacklisted?
- How to Check if Your iPhone is Blacklisted?
- How to Unlock a Locked iPhone?
- How to Fix a Blacklisted iPhone?
- Can a Locked iPhone be Blacklisted and Vice Versa?
- How to Avoid Buying a Locked or Blacklisted iPhone?
- Conclusion
- FAQs
What is a Locked iPhone?
A locked iPhone is a phone that is tied to a specific carrier or network. This means that if you buy a locked iPhone from a carrier, you can only use it on that carrier’s network. For example, if you buy a locked iPhone from AT&T, you will only be able to use it on AT&T’s network.
How to Check if Your iPhone is Locked?
You can check if your iPhone is locked by inserting a SIM card from another carrier into the iPhone. If the iPhone displays an error message or does not work with the new SIM card, then your iPhone is locked.
What is a Blacklisted iPhone?
A blacklisted iPhone is a phone that has been reported as lost or stolen, or has outstanding payments or contract obligations. When an iPhone is blacklisted, it cannot be used on any carrier’s network. Blacklisted iPhones are essentially unusable, as they cannot be activated or used for any purpose.
Why an iPhone Gets Blacklisted?
iPhones can get blacklisted for a variety of reasons. One common reason is if the iPhone is reported as lost or stolen. Another reason is if the iPhone has outstanding payments or contract obligations. Carriers and Apple can also blacklist iPhones if they suspect fraud or suspicious activity (as known as Chimaera Lock Policy).
How to Check if Your iPhone is Blacklisted?
You can check if your iPhone is blacklisted by using an online IMEI checker. The IMEI is a unique identifier for your iPhone, and can be found in the iPhone’s settings or by dialing *#06#. Enter the IMEI into an online checker to see if the iPhone is blacklisted.
How to Unlock a Locked iPhone?
You can unlock a locked iPhone by contacting the carrier that the iPhone is locked to. The carrier will provide you with an unlock code or instructions on how to unlock the iPhone. There are also third-party unlocking services that can unlock your iPhone for a fee.
How to Fix a Blacklisted iPhone?
If your iPhone is blacklisted, there are a few things you can do to try to fix it. First, you can contact the carrier that blacklisted the iPhone and try to resolve any outstanding issues. If the iPhone was reported as lost or stolen, you can try to prove that the iPhone is yours and was not stolen. If the iPhone has outstanding payments or contract obligations, you can try to pay off the balance or negotiate with the carrier to have the iPhone unblacklisted.
Can a Locked iPhone be Blacklisted and Vice Versa?
Yes, a locked iPhone can be blacklisted, and a blacklisted iPhone can be locked. For example, if you buy a locked iPhone and then stop paying your bill, the carrier may blacklist the iPhone. Similarly, if you buy a blacklisted iPhone and the previous owner did not pay off their balance or obligations, the iPhone will remain blacklisted and may also be locked to the previous carrier.
How to Avoid Buying a Locked or Blacklisted iPhone?
To avoid buying a locked or blacklisted iPhone, there are a few things you can do. First, always buy from a reputable seller or retailer. If you’re buying a used iPhone, make sure to check the iPhone’s IMEI to ensure that it is not blacklisted. You can also ask the seller if the iPhone is locked to a specific carrier.
Second, if you’re buying a new iPhone, make sure to buy the unlocked version. Unlocked iPhones can be used on any carrier’s network, which gives you more flexibility and freedom.
Conclusion on differences between a locked and a blacklisted iPhone
In conclusion, understanding the difference between a locked and a blacklisted iPhone is important if you’re planning to buy or sell a used iPhone. A locked iPhone is one that is tied to a specific carrier and can only be used on that carrier’s network. A blacklisted iPhone, on the other hand, has been reported as lost or stolen, or the previous owner did not pay off their balance or obligations. It is important to avoid buying a locked or blacklisted iPhone to prevent any issues with its functionality or compatibility with your carrier’s network.
Always make sure to buy from a reputable seller or retailer and check the iPhone’s IMEI before purchasing. If you’re buying a new iPhone, consider purchasing the unlocked version for more flexibility and freedom. With this knowledge, you can confidently make an informed decision when buying or selling an iPhone.
FAQs
Can a locked iPhone be unlocked?
Yes, a locked iPhone can be unlocked by contacting the carrier it is locked to and requesting an unlock. However, there may be certain requirements that need to be met before the carrier can unlock the iPhone.
Can a blacklisted iPhone be unblocked?
No, a blacklisted iPhone cannot be unblocked. Once a iPhone is blacklisted, it will remain on the blacklist even if the iPhone is unlocked or the SIM card is changed. However, it is possible to check which network blacklisted your iPhone and find an online service to unblacklist it.
Can I use a blacklisted iPhone as an iPod?
Yes, a blacklisted iPhone can still be used as an iPod to play music, watch videos, and use apps that don’t require cellular service.
Can I sell a locked iPhone?
Yes, you can sell a locked iPhone, but you must disclose to the buyer that the iPhone is locked to a specific carrier. The buyer may not be able to use the iPhone on their network unless they unlock it.
How do I check if an iPhone is blacklisted?
You can check the iPhone’s IMEI on websites that have access to GSX and GSMA databases to see if it is blacklisted. You can also contact the carrier to check if the iPhone is reported as lost or stolen.