What to do if your Apple iPhone 6s Plus 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 6s Plus 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 6s Plus 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 6s Plus 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 6s Plus device reported the Apple iPhone 6s Plus 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 6s Plus device on any carrier, not even the original one, thus avoiding selling or stealing the phone.

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Part 2: How to check if your Apple iPhone 6s Plus 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 6s Plus is blacklisted?

Checking if your Apple iPhone 6s Plus 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 6s Plus 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 6s Plus 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 6s Plus 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 6s Plus 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 6s Plus. 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 6s Plus 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 6s Plus 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 6s Plus 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 6s Plus device is the most straightforward way to unlock it. They may require clear documentation proving ownership of the Apple iPhone 6s Plus 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 6s Plus 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 6s Plus 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 6s Plus 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 6s Plus 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 6s Plus 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.

3 Ways to Unlock Your Apple iPhone 6s Plus for Free

Is your Apple iPhone 6s Plus locked to your SIM card? Well, there’s nothing to worry about. You can unlock your Apple iPhone 6s Plus in several ways. Your Apple iPhone 6s Plus’s lock may work differently. So, you can either unlock it by making small changes to the “Settings” or using third-party software.

In this article, I’ll talk about some popular ways to unlock your Apple iPhone 6s Plus without going online and a bonus tip that will help you unlock your Apple iPhone 6s Plus if none of the other methods work. This article will help you find free ways to unlock your Apple iPhone 6s Plus.

3 Free Ways to Unlock iPhone Offline

Following are some free ways to unlock your Apple iPhone 6s Plus Offline. You can unlock your Apple iPhone 6s Plus by making small changes in the settings of your Apple iPhone 6s Plus.

Unlock iPhone SIM card via phone app

Call any number from the Phone app or contact to display the “SIM Locked” pop-up window and unlock your Apple iPhone 6s Plus. The SIM PIN entry window will pop up again, ready for you to type in your code. Enter any fake number instead of dialing a real number like “333” and press the green button.

Unlock your Apple iPhone 6s Plus SIM card via “Settings”

The “Settings” app is another way to bring up the unlock notification. Go to the “Cellular” tab and choose “SIM PIN” as the last option. The SIM card should now ask you to unlock your Apple iPhone 6s Plus.

Unlock it via IMEI code

Contacting your carrier to unlock the sim lock on your Apple iPhone 6s Plus is legit and straightway. But before contacting your carrier, you must fulfill the following conditions.

• The device must be legal, which means the Apple iPhone 6s Plus device has not been reported as lost, stolen, or connected to a crime.
• You shouldn’t have any debts in your bank account.
• If you signed a contract in exchange for a lower upfront price, you would have to wait until your contract expires (typically 24 months) or pay the remaining amount if you purchased your phone on a payment plan.

If you meet the above conditions, you can get the phone unlocked from your carrier. You have to provide them IMEI number of your device. However, the rest of the unlocking process is different for each company.

Bonus Tip: Efficient App for iPhone SIM Unlock

Do you want to solve your problem on your Apple iPhone 6s Plus or Android devices? And you have no professional skills? So, you should never miss Dr.Fone. And Screen-Unlock is a highly efficient tool to remove the SIM-lock on your Apple iPhone 6s Plus.

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock

Unlock iPhone Carrier Simply and Quickly

• Remove Apple ID/iCloud Account efficiently.
• Save your Apple iPhone 6s Plus quickly from the disabled state.
• Free your sim out of any carrier worldwide.
• Bypass iCloud activation lock and enjoy all iCloud services
• Works for all models of iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.

4,008,669 people have downloaded it

How to Unlock Your Apple iPhone 6s Plus for Any Carrier with Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS)?

Step 1: Download Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) and install it on your computer. After you’ve put Wondershare Dr.Fone on your computer, run it. Go to the toolbox and choose “Screen Unlock” from the list of options.

safe & secure

Step 2: To remove the network lock on your device, please select “Remove SIM Locked” in the next window.

Step 3: When your iOS device is ready to be SIM unlocked, tap “Start” to get going.

Step 4: When the Apple iPhone 6s Plus is connected, the software finds it and gives a list of information about it. Make sure everything is in order, and click “Unlock Now”.

Note: Jailbreaking your Apple iPhone 6s Plus is necessary to keep the process. This method works with iOS versions 12.0 to 14.8.1 on iPhones 5S to X. But you don’t need to worry about how complex it is; we offer a jailbreak guide and a video for you.

Step 5: According to the screen on this step, please follow the simple instructions. When all tasks here are over, you can continue by tapping the button “Continue”.

Step 6: If the progress bar reaches 100%, the SIM lock will disappear from your device.

Step 7: The device is now unlocked, and the SIM carrier can’t limit how you use your device. Tap “Done” to unlock your iOS device’s SIM card.

Now, any SIM plan from any network can be used.

The bottom Line

So, these were the ways to unlock your Apple iPhone 6s Plus. You can adopt any of them depending on the nature of the lock on your Apple iPhone 6s Plus. Further, you can unlock your Apple iPhone 6s Plus by making small changes in the setting or directly contacting your carrier.

However, if you don’t want to contact your carrier, Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) can solve your problem. This software is one of the most reliable and easy software that unlocks your device by following very easy steps.

How To Unlock Cricket Apple iPhone 6s Plus for Free

Many iPhones, including those bought from Cricket, come locked to specific carriers. It restricts them to only function with the designated SIM cards. But what if you want to switch to a different carrier network? With a free Cricket network unlock code, you can break free from these restrictions.

Maybe you found a better deal with another carrier, or you’re planning a trip abroad. Selling your phone? Indeed, you need to unlock Cricket iPhone to make it more helpful. The good news is that doing it within a few minutes is possible. Let’s explore if and how you can unlock your phone for greater flexibility and freedom.

Part 1: Can Cricket Locked Apple iPhone 6s Plus Be Unlocked?

If you want to remove the carrier lock from your Apple iPhone 6s Plus, request Cricket customer support for the network unlock code for free. They’ll give it to you if they have it or can get it from the manufacturer. But first, make sure you meet the unlock requirements. The process depends on various factors, including your account status and the phone’s activation period.

If you are wondering whether there are other ways to do it aside from reaching out to their customer support, read on.

Different Ways To Unlock Cricket iPhone

Here’s an overview of the options available:

Cricket Network Unlock Code Free From Cricket Wireless

It is the most straightforward approach, but it comes with some restrictions. You must meet Cricket’s unlock policy requirements. If you fulfill these conditions, you can request a Cricket unlock code for free online.

Early Unlocking for Military Personnel

Good news if you’re in the military. You can ask their customer support to unlock your Apple iPhone 6s Plus, even if you haven’t used the service for six months. Having a Cricket device unlocked earlier is a way to help you stay connected during deployments.

Third-Party iPhone Unlocking Tools

Not all devices can be unlocked by Cricket if you don’t qualify for their requirements. However, paid online services and third-party apps can open up your options. These tools can help you use your phone on any compatible carrier, even if you don’t meet Cricket device unlock requirements.

While this option can be faster, choosing a reputable service provider and understanding the associated risks is crucial. Ensure it is legal in your region and won’t harm your phone’s functionality.

Ready to unlock Cricket iPhone? But wait, are you sure you meet the eligibility criteria? Let’s find out in the next section.

Part 2: What Are the Requirements To Unlock Cricket iPhone?

You might be here because you are considering using your Cricket iPhone on other carriers. Unlocking allows switching wireless networks or increasing resale value. But before that, you need to meet the following requirements to unlock Cricket iPhones using the official method:

• Active service: The Cricket iPhone must have been active with paid service for at least six months.
• Device Lock: The device must be locked to the Cricket network. You can check the lock status by contacting Cricket customer support.
• Device Status: Before you get the Cricket network unlock code freeof charge, your phone cannot be reported lost, stolen, or involved in fraudulent activity.
• Account Status: Your Cricket account must be in good standing, meaning no outstanding balances or unpaid bills.

Exceptions for Active Military Personnel

If you’re in the military and can’t meet the six-month service rule, you can ask for a quick device unlock from Cricket. But there are still other requirements to fulfill, and you must show Cricket proof of your deployment. This proof can be military orders, deployment papers, or a letter from your commanding officer.

Eligibility checked? Great! Now, let’s continue and explore the different ways you can unlock a Cricket iPhone. We’ll start with online methods and then cover a section for military personnel.

If you think your Cricket phone meets the criteria, follow these steps below to receive a Cricket network unlock code freely available online.

• Step 1: Visit the Cricket Device Unlock portal and sign in with your Cricket account credentials.

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• Step 2: Select the phone number you want to unlock.
• Step 3: Select Request Unlock.
• Step 4: Once unlocked, your Apple iPhone 6s Plus will display a message and send a confirmation. No further steps are required for eligible iPhones after unlocking.

If you can’t unlock Cricket iPhone but are eligible, call Cricket customer service at 1-800-CRICKET (1-800-274-2538) for help.

How To Unlock Cricket iPhone for Military Personnel?

Reach out to Cricket customer support at 1-800-CRICKET (1-800-274-2538). You can also dial 611 from your Cricket Apple iPhone 6s Plus to request the Cricket network unlock code for free. Provide them with your details and the required documentation.

If you don’t qualify for the Cricket device unlock policy or prefer to do it on your own and want a faster result, there is a convenient way to unlock your phone. Let’s explore an all-in-one mobile solution app in the next section.

Part 4: What To Do if Apple or Cricket Can’t Unlock Your Apple iPhone 6s Plus?

Expand your options with a paid but cost-effective solution. Wondershare Dr.Fone can help unlock Cricket iPhone, allowing you to use it with any compatible carrier. You don’t need to wait six months to remove the carrier lock on your device. As long as your device IMEI is not blocked, you can unlock the Cricket phone early.

See how these Dr.Fone key features can transform your mobile experience:

• Fix SIM lock problems such as SIM not supported, SIM not valid, SIM locked, and No Network Service
• Can unlock carriers whether your phone is under a carrier installment plan or a term agreement
• Supports various carriers, including Cricket, T-Mobile, Verizon, and Vodafone
• Compatibility with diverse iOS versions and the latest iPhone models

Dr.Fone is easy to use for beginners, and it works even on second-hand devices. So, if you want to unlock Cricket iPhone within a few minutes anywhere, follow these steps below:

• Step 1: Download the software to your computer, install it, and set up an account. Then, go to the Toolbox on the homepage and choose Screen Unlock > iOS.

• Step 2: Select Remove SIM Locked from the Screen Unlock tools window.

• Step 3: To begin, click Start. You’ll find details about your Apple iPhone 6s Plus in the next window, like the IMEI, model, and version. Click Unlock Now to confirm and proceed.

Note:

Click Jailbreak Guide on the dialogue box when prompted.

• Step 4: The Dr.Fone app comes with an in-app guide. Follow the steps, and when you’re finished, click Continue.

• Step 5: Wait for the app to remove the carrier lock. When your Apple iPhone 6s Plus is unlocked, click Done.

Conclusion

So, can you unlock Cricket iPhone and remove network restrictions? Absolutely, yes. The numerous benefits include using any carrier globally, selling your phone faster, and getting better network plans.

Remember, unlocking a device doesn’t always mean it is safe. Stick to official methods from Cricket or consider trusted paid but highly cost-effective services like Dr.Fone for the best results and expert support. While it may not be free, this app ensures a faster, more professional mobile solution protecting your data and device. Follow this guide to experience the full benefits of a Cricket device unlocked to various carriers.