How To Unlock The Apple iPhone SE (2020) SIM Lock: 4 Easy Methods

Is your Apple iPhone SE (2020) locked to a specific carrier? Losing a complete hold of your Apple iPhone SE (2020) is very frustrating. You can’t use a SIM card from a different network. Keep calm because you have the chance to learn about the tools you can use to unlock your Apple iPhone SE (2020).

In this article, we’ll talk about the two ways to find out if your phone is SIM-locked and four ways to unlock Apple iPhone SE (2020), including Software that can quickly unlock your phone by following a few simple steps. After you read this article, the carrier options are much more available.

How to Check the SIM Lock Status on Apple iPhone SE (2020)

Check the “Network Provider Lock”

Before you go for a solution to unlock your Apple iPhone SE (2020), you should first know the nature of the lock on your device. So, you should check the lock following the methods below.

1. Check it via “Carrier Lock” in “Settings.”

Go to Settings > General > About.

Apple has added a new section to iOS 14 called Network Provider Lock that immediately tells you the Apple iPhone SE (2020) device’s status.

Scroll down until it immediately tells you the Apple iPhone SE (2020) device’s status section. “No SIM restrictions” should appear on the screen if the Apple iPhone SE (2020) is unlocked. Seeing something else means that the Apple iPhone SE (2020) is locked.

Try a SIM card from another carrier

Follow the steps below:

1. Switch off your Apple iPhone SE (2020)
2. Open the SIM Tray with a straight pin and take out the SIM card.
3. Put the SIM card from a different provider into the iPhone’s sim card slot. Put the tray back where it belongs.
4. Turn on the iPhone.
5. Call any phone number that works. Your Apple iPhone SE (2020) is locked if you get an error message. If you can make the call and connect, your Apple iPhone SE (2020) is unlocked.

What are the prerequisites for an Apple iPhone SE (2020) SIM lock?

(Verizon/AT&T/T-Mobile as example)

How to unlock the Apple iPhone SE (2020) locked by Verizon

To prevent theft and other types of fraud, Verizon locks new devices to only work on the Verizon network. The company has different rules for unlocking prepaid and post-pay devices, as well as special rules for people in the military who are distributed.

“Unlocking” a device means turning off Software that would stop a customer from trying to use a device made for one carrier’s network on another carrier’s network. Due to different technologies, a Verizon Wireless device that has been unlocked may only work partially on another carrier’s network.

Verizon’s Policy for unlocking Post-pay devices

If you buy a phone from Verizon, it will be locked for 60 days after you buy it. If you buy a device from one of their authorized retailers, it will be locked for 60 days after it is activated.

After 60 days, the lock will be taken off itself unless the Apple iPhone SE (2020) device is found to be stolen or was bought through fraud. After 60 days, their phones are never locked again.

Unlocking Verizon’s Prepaid Device

After activation, devices you buy from Verizon and some devices you buy from one of their authorized retailers are locked for 60 days. After 60 days, the lock will be taken off itself unless the Apple iPhone SE (2020) device is found to be stolen or was bought through fraud. After the first 60 days, their phones are locked, but after that, they never lock them again.

Military Personnel Placement Unlocking Policy

If you are in the military and a Verizon Wireless customer, in case, you get orders to move outside of the Verizon Coverage Area. The company will unlock your device and stop your service if you ask, even if it has only been 60 days since you bought it.

How to unlock the Apple iPhone SE (2020) locked by AT&T

First, you should know that AT&T customers can only unlock a certain number of devices yearly. If a customer’s account is in good shape, they can unlock up to five devices per account per year. You can find out how to unlock an AT&T device and if you meet the requirements on the AT&T support page.

AT&T Unlocking security question

• The person’s full name as it appears on the account
• The account holder’s last four digits of their social security number
• The AT&T passcode of the person whose name is on the account if that person has an online account.

How to unlock the Apple iPhone SE (2020) locked by T-Mobile

T-Mobile has set up several requirements that must be met for an unlock request to be processed.

• The device has to be paid off in full, and the account has to be in good shape.
• In the past year, less than two SIM unlock codes have been
• The device had been connected to the T-Mobile network for at least 40 days before someone asked for it to be unlocked.
• You have a service contract and have paid for at least 18 months in a row, or you paid a fee for moving. There are a few special situations that Customer Service can tell you more about if you need to.
• The phone must have at least $50 worth of recharges paid for on prepaid plans.
• If you meet the above requirements, you can call T-customer Mobile’s service at 611 from the Apple iPhone SE (2020) 11 or 12 you want to unlock and ask them to unlock it.

When you call, make sure you have ALL of the following:

1. The phone number of the main account holder
2. Account Password
3. The last four digits of the account holder’s SSN.
4. The IMEI number. Find it by going to Settings > General > About or pressing *#06#.

DoctorSIM

DoctorSIM has services that can be used to unlock a cell phone. This site lets you unlock phones from many brands, not just Apple. The services they provide make most of their customers very happy.

So, this site has been able to gain customers’ trust by providing excellent unlocking services. Many happy customers have given this site a 4.7 rating on the Trust pilot. The price of these devices depends on the brand and model. However, they have some pros and cons.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• It can unlock almost all brands, including Apple, even some that aren’t as well-known.
• A powerful and effective tool that can unlock 99% of all phones.

Cons

• It can take up to seven days to unlock a device.
• Some reviews say that the service from DoctorSIM doesn’t work.

Contact your carrier to unlock it with the IMEI code

When a customer deals an agreement with a large cell phone company for a certain amount of time, they usually get a discount on a device. Because of this, the Apple iPhone SE (2020) device has a controller lock, so customers can only use it on their network. You can leave without paying anything if your contract with the company is over. Before you can unlock your Apple iPhone SE (2020), you have to do the following:

First, it has to be legal. It means the Apple iPhone SE (2020) device has not been reported as lost, stolen, or linked to a crime.

Then your bank account shouldn’t have any debts. If you signed a contract in exchange for a lower price upfront, you would have to wait until your contract was up (usually 24 months) or pay the remaining balance if you bought your phone on a payment plan. Each company has its way of unlocking.

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS)

You have read the part about some ways to remove the SIM lock from Apple iPhone SE (2020). If they are too complicated, you have another chance. Dr.Fone-Screen Unlock provides a direct method to unlock your SIM card.

Step1: First of all, Download and install the Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS)

Step2: In the main interface of Dr.Fone, please go for “Screen Unlock.”

Step3: Tap “Remove SIM Locked” in the following box to unlock your device’s network.

Step4: Tap “Start” as the beginning when your iOS device is prepared to be SIM unlocked.

Step5: When the Apple iPhone SE (2020) is connected, the software detects it and displays a list of details. Verify all shown parts are in place before clicking “Unlock Now.”

Step6: Jailbreaking your Apple iPhone SE (2020) is required before proceeding with the process. This approach is compatible with iPhones 5S and up running iOS versions 12.0 to 14.8.1. Therefore, in order to learn about technology, you must either read the manual or watch the video.

Step7: This step needs you to manipulate your SIM card and your network. Please be careful about the adjustment of all network settings.

Step8: You can put your phone down now. The rest part is automatic.

Step9: The device can now be used without any limitations imposed by the SIM carrier because it has been unlocked. To unlock the SIM card on your iOS device, tap the “Done” button.

Click here

### The Bottom Line

So, these are the ways to find out if your Apple iPhone SE (2020) is locked and the four ways to unlock it if it is. You can get your Apple iPhone SE (2020) unlocked by calling your carrier. This is the official way to get rid of restrictions. If you don’t want to use this method, you can unlock your Apple iPhone SE (2020) using some online websites.

But Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) is one of the most trustworthy and easy-to-use programs that lets you unlock your device by taking a few simple steps.

Top 11 Free Apps to Check IMEI on Apple iPhone SE (2020)

Your IMEI number is your device’s identity and being able to use it to check the legitimacy of your device should be easy. There are lots of websites that allow you to easily check your IMEI but in this world where we use our mobile devices more, most of us want the convenience of being able to perform this task on our devices.

For this reason, we saw it fit to compile a list of the best Android and iOS apps that allow you to easily do an IMEI check. Those apps are listed below.

Part 1: Top 6 Android Apps to Check your IMEI Number

1. IMEI info

The site IMEI info does just what the name suggest. It allows you to enter your IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number and immediately get information about your device. This unique 15-digit number is used to identify and track mobile devices, as well as to provide information about the Apple iPhone SE (2020) device’s brand, model, specifications, and other details.

It is easy to use and a great solution if you are just looking for a simple solution to find more information about your device using your IMEI number. Users can enter their device’s IMEI number on the website to check its status, verify its authenticity, and access other useful information. This can be helpful in situations such as purchasing a used device or finding lost or stolen devices.

Link: https://www.imei.info/

Pros:

• User-friendly interface.
• Provides detailed device information.
• Checks blacklist and warranty status.
• Offers additional services, such as phone unlocking.
• Compatible with various devices and manufacturers.

Cons:

• Limited information for some devices.
• May provide outdated or inaccurate data.
• Requires manual entry of IMEI.
• Premium features require payment.
• Privacy concerns when sharing IMEI.

Read Customer Service Reviews of imei.info

1. _This page was very helpful when My Apple iPhone SE (2020) was stolen, and with it’s help I could check it’s IMEI status! Also you can find lots of basic and more advanced informations about different devices on this page, which can be very helpful too! – from Trustpilot _
2. _Information did you provided me is wrong, because several times I contacted to Sprint and T-Mobile bile, and then confirm that the phone by IMEI that I provided he’s not in their database. – from Trustpilot _

Tips: You’re going on a trip to Frankfort, but forgot to unlock your Apple iPhone SE (2020). You need to unlock it first, because you will get a message: “This iPhone is locked and cannot be used with another carrier.” I highly recommend using Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) to remove SIM lock if you have the need. This software is user-friendly, effective, and reliable, ensuring that your device is unlocked without any issues.

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2. IMEI Analyzer

Aside from just allowing you to check whether the IMEI number provided is valid, IMEI Analyzer will also provide you with data about your device based on the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number . It also has an additional feature that calculates the IMEI number when you enter only 15 digits. It also analyses the IMEI number providing you with different information about the number itself such as the Serial Number (SNR), Type Allocation Code (TAC), Reporting body identifier, Final Assembly Code, and Check Digit.

By using an IMEI Analyzer, users can validate the IMEI number, check if the Apple iPhone SE (2020) device is blacklisted or stolen, and obtain information about the Apple iPhone SE (2020) device’s brand, model, and specifications. This can be particularly useful when buying a used mobile device or trying to recover a lost or stolen one. Some IMEI analyzers may also provide additional features such as warranty status checks, carrier information, and SIM lock status.

Download Link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.vndnguyen.imeianalyze&hl=en

Pros:

• Provides detailed information about the Apple iPhone SE (2020) device’s IMEI number, including whether it is blacklisted or not.
• Easy to use and navigate.
• Free to download and use.
• Helpful for those looking to buy a used phone and want to check its validity.

Cons:

• Some users have reported that the app crashes frequently.
• Limited features beyond IMEI analysis.
• Some users have reported inaccuracies in the information provided by the app.

3. IMEI Generator & IMEI Changer

IMEI Changer is an app that will not only provide you with information about your device based on your IMEI number but also can be used to generate an IMEI number for your device. The developers however caution that the App may not be able to work for all mobile phones or SIM cards.

Pros:

• Easy to use interface.
• Provides detailed information about the Apple iPhone SE (2020) device’s IMEI number.
• Offers free IMEI checks for basic information.
• Provides in-app purchases for more detailed information.
• Supports multiple languages.

Cons:

• Requires a stable internet connection to function properly.
• Some users have reported inaccurate or incomplete information.
• In-app purchases can be expensive.
• Some users have reported issues with the app crashing or freezing.

4. IMEI

IMEI just like all the others we’ve seen allows the user to get information on their devices based on their IMEI numbers. But that’s not all. Unlike others this one also allows users to quickly generate their IMEI numbers. It also has a lot of good reviews from those who have used it.

Download Link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.gerondesign.imei&hl=en

Pros:

• User-friendly interface.
• Quick IMEI scanning and checking.
• Detailed device information provided.
• Wide device compatibility.
• Free to download and use.

Cons:

• Free to download and use.
• Limited to IMEI-specific features.
• Possible information inaccuracies.
• Infrequent updates.

5. IMEI Checker

IMEI Checker is another free Android app that is designed to help you find out more information about your device using the IMEI number. This small app is easy to use and most who have used have a lot of praise for the app.

The app allows users to check the IMEI number of their devices and gather detailed information such as the manufacturer, model, and blacklist status. This can be helpful for tracking lost or stolen devices and verifying the authenticity of a phone before purchasing it. Additionally, the app provides device information like hardware and software specifications, system details, and network information.

Download Link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.imeichecker.imeinumberfinder.deviceinfostatus

Pros:

• Easy-to-use interface.
• Quick IMEI scanning and analysis.
• Detailed device information provided.
• Useful for device verification before purchase.
• Offers hardware and software specifications.

Cons:

• Requires internet connection for IMEI check.
• May not support all devices or brands.
• Some users report inaccuracies in information.
• Advertisements may be intrusive for some users.

Read Customer Service Reviews of IMEI Checker

1. IMEI is an exceptionally astounding and remarkable application. This is not difficult to utilize this application. Everybody can find their IMEI number through this application. By and by I like and love this application. Thus, thank you kindly IMEI checker. – from Google Play
2. It’s show only your device information like what is your IMEI number, mobile no. etc, it’s not tracker . – from Google Play

6. SIM Card Information and IMEI

SIM Card Information and IMEI will check and generate your device’s IMEI number and allow you to copy or share the information on social networks or via email. On top of providing information about your device, the app also provides SIM related information such as the contacts that are stored on the Apple iPhone SE (2020) device.

Download Link: https://m.apkpure.com/sim-card-information-and-imei/com.simcard.info.imei

Pros:

• Simple user interface.
• Useful for tracking lost or stolen devices.
• Can check SIM card usage and balance.

Cons:

• Requires an internet connection for some features.
• Limited to IMEI and SIM card-related functionalities.
• Privacy concerns regarding sharing of SIM and IMEI data.

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS)

Unlock iPhone/iPad Without Passcode

• Unlock Face ID, Touch ID, Apple ID without password.
• Bypass the iCloud activation lock without hassle.
• Remove iPhone carrier restrictions for unlimited usage.
• No tech knowledge required, Simple, click-through, process.

3,981,454 people have downloaded it

Part 2: Top 5 iPhone Apps to Check your IMEI Number

1. MobiCheck

By entering your IMEI number in this app, you can check whether your device has been marked as stolen or blacklisted. All you have to do is enter your IMEI number into the slot provided and the MobiCheck app will display the information. You can download the app for free and your first check is free but all subsequent checks will cost you $0.20 per check.

Download Link: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mobicheck/id1057556237

Pros:

• Simple and user-friendly interface.
• Cloud and Find My iPhone status checks.
• Compatible with both iPhone and iPad.

Cons:

• In-app purchases for full functionality.
• Limited to IMEI and device-related features.
• Updates may not be frequent or address all issues.

Read Customer Service Reviews of MobiCheck

1. This app works !! Even better that is free! – from App Store
2. I’m stuck in a loop where it keeps telling me to confirm my account with an email sent to me, then I try to log in after confirming and it tells me my account has not been fully set up. Kept going back and forth with the same issue so I gave up and deleted the app. Total garbage, will update when/if issue fixed. – from App Store

2. iMei Blacklist Checker

iMei Blacklist Checker is another app that will allow you to get your device details just by entering the IMEI number. This app is available for the Apple iPhone SE (2020) and iPad. It provides a wide range of information about your device and is very easy to use. Moreover, if you want to buy a second-hand iPhone, you can use this tool to check if the phone has been reported as lost or stolen before making the final purchase decision.

3. IMEI info for iPhone

IMEI info for iPhone is an application that allows you to check the status of your device by simply entering you IMEI number. The developers behind the app also offer an unlocking service that also utilizes your IMEI number. This is a great app that is very useful and easy to use.

Download Link: http://www.imei.info/

4. iPhoneOX

This site iPhoneOX offers a lot of services that include checking IMEI for free as well as unlocking services that are offered at a fee. It is a great and easy-to-use solution that will provide you with additional information about your device and even offer help whenever you get stuck.

Click here


Link: http://www.iphoneox.com/

5. iUnlocker

iUnlocker is another great application that will help you get information about your device from your IMEI number. It can also allow you to check a large number of IMEI numbers at once. Checking is free although they do offer an unlocking service that you will have to pay.

Link: http://iunlocker.net/check_imei.php

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (Android)

Remove Android lock screen in 5 minutes

• Pattern, PIN, password, fingerprints & face screen lock can all be unlocked.
• Bypass Android FRP lock without a PIN or Google account.
• Unlock mainstream Android brands like Samsung, Huawei, LG, Xiaomi, etc.
• No tech knowledge required, Simple, click-through, process.

3,981,454 people have downloaded it

Conclusion

In conclusion, these are the top free apps to check IMEI on iPhone and Android devices. These apps provide detailed information about the Apple iPhone SE (2020) device, including the manufacturer, model, and serial number. Additionally, they provide information about the network carrier, blacklist status, and warranty status. Users can also track their lost or stolen device using the IMEI number. These apps are essential tools for ensuring the security and compatibility of mobile devices.

All of these are ideal for helping you with IMEI checking. They can be great solutions and we hope that you are able to find the right one for your needs. Let us know how the one you pick works for you and if you encounter any problems while using any of the apps.

Tips: If you have ever had your Apple iPhone SE (2020) locked, you know how frustrating it can be. You need to get a new SIM card and pay the carrier a lot of money, but with Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) you can unlock your Apple iPhone SE (2020) easily, quickly and safely for international use, and bypass the carrier SIM lock in many situations like “SIM Not Support “, “SIM Not Valid”, “SIM Locked” or “No Network Serves”.

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What to do if your Apple iPhone SE (2020) has bad ESN or blacklisted IMEI?

Many people have iPhones but don’t know what an IMEI number is or what a bad ESN represents. Understanding how to tackle this issue can save time, money, and a headache or two. In this extensive guide, we’ll walk you through the basic mechanics of ESN and IMEI, how to check if your Apple iPhone SE (2020) is blacklisted, and the detailed steps for unlocking a phone with a bad ESN or blacklisted IMEI.

Part 1: Basic information about IMEI number and ESN

What is IMEI number?

IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity): IMEI numbers are unique to GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) and UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System) network mobile phones. Unlike ESN, an IMEI number is 15 digits long. It serves as an anti-theft measure, meaning a blacklisted IMEI can result from a device being reported lost or stolen or a breach of the consumer agreement.

What is an ESN?

Electronic Serial Number (ESN): Previously utilized by CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) networks, an ESN was a unique identifier for cellular devices. With technological progression, most carriers have shifted their focus to the IMEI system, but knowing your ESN’s history is still crucial, especially if you’re dealing with older devices.

What is a Bad ESN?

A Bad ESN can mean a lot of things, let’s check out some examples:

1. If you hear this term most probably you are trying to activate the Apple iPhone SE (2020) device with a carrier, but that’s not possible due to some reasons.
2. It can mean that the previous owner of the Apple iPhone SE (2020) device switched carriers.
3. The previous owner had an outstanding amount on their bill and cancelled the account without paying the bill first.
4. The previous owner didn’t have a bill when they cancelled the account but they were still under a contract and if you cancel sooner than the due date for the contract, an “early termination fee” is created based on the remaining period of the contract and they hadn’t paid that amount.
5. The person that sold you the phone or someone else who was the actual owner of the Apple iPhone SE (2020) device reported the Apple iPhone SE (2020) device as lost or stolen.

What is a blacklisted IMEI?

Blacklisted IMEI is basically the same thing as Bad ESN but for devices that work on CDMA networks, like Verizon or Sprint. In short, the main reason that a device has a Blacklisted IMEI is so that you as the owner or someone else cannot activate the Apple iPhone SE (2020) device on any carrier, not even the original one, thus avoiding selling or stealing the phone.

You Might Be Interested In:

1. Ultimate Guide to Backing Up iPhone With/Without iTunes
2. 3 Ways to Unlock A Disabled iPhone Without iTunes
3. How to Unlock iPhone Passcode With or Without iTunes?

Part 2: How to check if your Apple iPhone SE (2020) is blacklisted?

In order to check if an iPhone is blacklisted, you need to first retrieve your IMEI or ESN number to check if it’s blacklisted.

How to find the IMEI or ESN numbers

1. On the original box of the iPhone, usually around the barcode.
2. In Settings, if you go to General > About, you can find the IMEI or ESN.
3. On some iPhones, it’s in the SIM card tray when you pull it out.
4. Some iPhones have it engraved on the back of the case.
5. If you dial *#06# on your dial pad you will get the IMEI or ESN.

How to verify if your Apple iPhone SE (2020) is blacklisted?

Checking if your Apple iPhone SE (2020) has a blacklisted IMEI is the first step in addressing the issue. There are several methods to do this, either via the Apple website, the network carrier, or through third-party IMEI check services.

1. Apple’s Blacklist Status Tool: Operating directly from Apple’s official website, entering your IMEI number can provide instant clarity on its status.
2. Network Carrier Services: Another way is to contact the carrier that the Apple iPhone SE (2020) was initially sold from. Finding out is easy, just look for a logo: on the box of the iPhone, on the back case of it and even on the screen of the Apple iPhone SE (2020) as it boots up. Just look for any carrier, Verizon, Sprint, T-Mobile, etc. Contacting your network carrier can also yield a blacklist status. Bear in mind that not all network services are equally adept or willing to communicate this information, and turnaround times may vary.
3. Third-Party IMEI Check Services: Utilizing third-party IMEI checkers is often the quickest method. These can be found as online services or apps, but it’s important to choose reputable sources. This is a highly recommended source to check the status of your phone because it’s quick, reliable and offers no fuss. You just go to the page, enter the IMEI or ESN, enter your contact details, and you’ll soon receive all the information you need!

Part 3: What to do if your Apple iPhone SE (2020) has bad ESN or blacklisted IMEI?

A bad ESN or blacklisted IMEI is serious business. It can result in a device being unusable on most of the surrounding networks. If your IMEI is blacklisted, there are steps for potential resolution:

Ask the seller for a refund

If you bought the Apple iPhone SE (2020) device with the bad ESN newly from a retailer or online shop, you might be in luck as they can provide you with a refund or at least a replacement, depending on their policy. For example, Amazon and eBay have refund policies. Unfortunately, if you got the phone from someone you found on the street, or from a seller over sources like Craigslist, this might not be possible. But there are still other things you can do.

Use it as a gaming console or iPod

Smartphones have a whole lot of functionality besides being able to place calls. You can install a bunch of different video games in it, you can use it to surf the internet, watch videos over YouTube, download music and videos to it. You could even use it as an iPod. The possibilities are really endless. You can even install apps like Skype and use Skype call as an alternative to a phone call.

Report of the Issue to the Police

If you suspect fraud or a theft may have been involved, filing a report can be necessary.

Get the IMEI or ESN Cleaned

Depending on your carrier, you can see if they entertain requests to remove your IMEI from the blacklist. IMEI cleaning services exist, offering to remove the blacklisted status. However, proceed with caution, as this is often in a gray legal area.

Swap the Logic Board

The thing about a blacklisted IMEI is that it’s only blacklisted in a particular country. An unlocked AT&T iPhone blacklisted in the US would still function in Australia on another network. As such you can try and change the chips of your Apple iPhone SE (2020). However, in doing so you should be prepared for some possible irreparable damage.

Unlock it and then Sell it

After your unlock your Apple iPhone SE (2020) you can sell it to foreigners at a lowered rate. You can find out how to unlock in the next steps. But why would foreigners buy a blacklisted phone, you might ask? That’s because they won’t be on US soil long, and the IMEI is only blacklisted locally. So foreigners and tourists might be persuaded to buy your Apple iPhone SE (2020) if you throw in a big enough discount.

Take it apart and sell the spare parts

You can dismember the logic board, screen, dock connector and back casing, and sell them separately. These may be used to help out other broken iPhones.

Sell internationally

As mentioned earlier, you can unlock the phone with the blacklisted IMEI. However, since it’s only blacklisted locally, you can sell it internationally where it would still have value.

Flash phone to another carrier

This is an ideal option for those who don’t mind changing carriers. You can flash the phone to another carrier, as long as they accept it, and pretty soon you’ll have a functional phone! However, in some cases, you might land with a 3G connection instead of a 4G.

Determine Hybrid GSM/CDMA Phones

If your phone cannot activate on a CDMA carrier like Verizon or Sprint, the IMEI can still be used on a GSM network. Most phones manufactured these days come with a GSM standard nano or micro sim card slot and have GSM radio enabling for a GSM network. Most of them also come factory unlocked as well.

Having a phone with bad ESN or blacklisted IMEI is naturally a headache, however, all hope isn’t lost. You can do any of the things mentioned in the previous steps, and you can read on to find out how to unlock the phone with bad ESN or blacklisted IMEI.

Part 4: How to unlock a phone with bad ESN or blacklisted IMEI?

Unlocking a phone with bad ESN or a blacklisted IMEI is not a single-step process. It involves both technological and legal maneuvering. It’s important to note that unlocking a blacklisted phone might not make it fully operational, but it can help in using it with carriers outside the country where it was blacklisted.

Understanding Lock Status

Before proceeding, ensure you understand the lock status of your phone. If the phone is network locked, it only works with a specific carrier. If it is blacklisted, it’s barred from most network use. An unlocked phone, on the other hand, is a blank slate ready to work with any carrier that supports the Apple iPhone SE (2020) device’s technological specifications.

Steps to Unlock

Here’s a comprehensive overview of the steps to unlock a phone with a bad ESN or blacklisted IMEI:

1. Ascertain Legality: Ensure unlocking your phone is within the bounds of the law, both locally and globally. Legal provisions such as the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) in the US and similar laws elsewhere define the circumstances under which phone unlocking is legal.
2. Contact the Carrier: If the blacklisting issue has been resolved, contacting the carrier who blacklisted the Apple iPhone SE (2020) device is the most straightforward way to unlock it. They may require clear documentation proving ownership of the Apple iPhone SE (2020) device and the resolution of the reason for blacklisting.
3. Consider Third-Party Services: If your phone was blacklisted from a carrier in a different country where unlocking might be a common practice, third-party services can assist. Verify that they are reputable and have a solid track record, as well as a range of positive reviews from previous customers.
4. IMEI Repair and Unlock Tools: Some advanced users may consider IMEI repair software or unlock tools. However, utilizing these services could be illegal or fraudulent unless you are a certified technician who can verify the legitimacy of the software being used and the legality of the method in your region.
5. Seek Professional Repair Centers: If all else fails, there are mobile repair shops that specialize in this type of work. It’s important to vet these services thoroughly, and ensure they are trained in such repairs and have a history of success.

Considerations and Warnings

• Device Warranty: Unlocking a phone could void its warranty. Consider the cost-benefit of unlocking versus keeping the Apple iPhone SE (2020) device under warranty.
• Legal Ramifications: Unauthorized unlocking can have legal repercussions. It’s important to research and ensure compliance with all relevant laws.
• Financial Risks: Some services come at a high cost, and there are scams in the market. Be cautious and only deal with recognized and trusted entities.

Part 5: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I find out if this iPhone is reported as lost or stolen? I mean which one is it?

This information is anonymous to carriers and no one will be able to tell you exactly.

Q: I have a friend who wants to sell me an iPhone, how do I check if it has a bad ESN or if it’s lost or stolen before I buy it?

You will need to check the IMEI or ESN.

Q: I am the owner of the Apple iPhone SE (2020) and I reported it as lost some time ago and I found it, can I cancel it?

Yes, you can but most carriers will ask you to go to a retail store with at least one valid ID.

Q: I dropped My Apple iPhone SE (2020) and the screen cracked. Does it now have a bad ESN?

Hardware damage has no relation with an ESN. So your ESN status will remain unchanged.

Q: Is it Legal to Unlock a Phone with a Bad ESN or Blacklisted IMEI?

The legality of unlocking a phone with a bad ESN or blacklisted IMEI varies from country to country and can be influenced by specific case laws. However, in cases where the user is the original owner and the phone is paid off, it’s typically legal to unlock the Apple iPhone SE (2020) device.

Q: Can You Use a Blacklisted Phone Internationally?

In some cases, a blacklisted phone can be used internationally. When a phone is blacklisted, it’s typically barred from the carrier network where the blacklist was applied. However, different countries have different national blacklists, so it’s possible that a phone blacklisted in one country will work in another. Unlocking the phone internationally can be an option here.

Q: Can IMEI Cleaning Really Work?

IMEI cleaning is the process by which the IMEI’s blacklisted status is removed. There are services that offer to clean your IMEI, and while some may work, it’s important to understand the legality and efficacy of such services, as it may involve fraudulent activity and your phone may still not be fully operational on some networks even after being cleaned.

Q: What Consequences Can I Face by Using a Blacklisted Phone?

Using a blacklisted phone can have various consequences. It’s unlikely to work on the network of the carrier where it was blacklisted, and the reliability of third-party carriers might be limited. Additionally, there may be legal implications, especially if the phone was blacklisted for being reported lost or stolen.

Q: Should I Buy a Phone with a Bad ESN or Blacklisted IMEI?

It’s generally not advisable to purchase a phone with a bad ESN or blacklisted IMEI, as it would be difficult to use on most networks. Such devices are often sold at lower prices, but the risks and limitations associated with them might not be worth the discount.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a phone with a bad ESN or blacklisted IMEI presents a unique set of challenges. The complexity of resolving the issue hinges on various factors including the reasons for blacklisting, the phone model, and the networks involved, among others. The best approach is often a mix of legal recourse, communication with carriers, and potentially seeking the assistance of professional technicians or legal counsel. Always research thoroughly and seek advice from reliable sources when taking the significant step of unlocking a phone with a bad ESN or blacklisted IMEI.

So now you know everything there is to know about IMEI, bad ESN, and blacklisted iPhones. You also know how to check their status using the handy Dr.Fone webpage or through contacting your carrier. And in case your Apple iPhone SE (2020) is erroneously locked and you can’t access it, we’ve also shown you how to unlock it using the Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) service tool.

If you have any other questions not covered in our FAQ section, please feel free to leave us a comment. We look forward to hearing from you.