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:

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.
It can mean that the previous owner of the Apple iPhone SE (2020) device switched carriers.
The previous owner had an outstanding amount on their bill and cancelled the account without paying the bill first.
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.
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.

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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

On the original box of the iPhone, usually around the barcode.
In Settings, if you go to General > About, you can find the IMEI or ESN.
On some iPhones, it’s in the SIM card tray when you pull it out.
Some iPhones have it engraved on the back of the case.
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.

Apple’s Blacklist Status Tool: Operating directly from Apple’s official website, entering your IMEI number can provide instant clarity on its status.
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.
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:

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

Unlock Your Boost Mobile Apple iPhone SE (2020) Before the Plan Expires

If you are using your Apple iPhone SE (2020) with the Boost mobile network, then it means that your device is locked with the carrier and can only work with the ones supported by Boost. So, now if you are willing to move to another carrier for a better installment plan, or any other reason, the need for Boost mobile unlock will arise.

To unlock your device, you have two options, you can either use the free Boost mobile unlock code that is the official way of unlocking the Apple iPhone SE (2020) device (though it requires several prerequisites), or can opt for a third-party tool.

In the following parts of the topic, we will take you through all the details needed for Boost mobile device unlock.

Part1: What Will Get After unlocking Boost Mobile?

Before you go for the Boost mobile device unlock, the very first thing to know is why do you want to unlock your device and what will be its benefits. Some of the major scenarios that you can achieve by unlocking your Apple iPhone SE (2020) are listed below.

Switching to other networks offering more lucrative and suitable deals

There is quite a possibility that during your Boost plan you may find a deal or an offer by another carrier that is more lucrative, pocket friendly, and meet all your requirements. In such situations, you would want to unlock your device and shift to another carrier to avail of the deal.

Using a second-hand device having a locked carrier

If you have bought a second-hand device having the locked carrier or paid monthly contracts, you would need to first need to unlock the Apple iPhone SE (2020) device to use it. It might happen that the original owner of the phone might have a locked carrier plan on their device which they missed ending up before selling the phone. So, as a new buyer, you would need to unlock it to enable it with your choice of the carrier.

An unlocked phone will fetch you better prices while selling it

If you are planning to sell your phone, then it is advisable to unlock its carrier for bargaining a better deal and pricing. A buyer would always want an iPhone where they can use their choice of network and carrier and thus if you unlock your phone, you can fetch better prices in comparison to the locked phone.

Allows connecting to network overseas without activating roaming

If you use a locked carrier on your phone, you would need to activate roaming while traveling overseas and this would be quite pricey. Here unlocking proves to be quite beneficial as with the unlocked device, you can opt for the overseas carrier network and thus there will be no need for any roaming activation.

Part2: How to Unlock Boost Mobile iPhone with Boost Customers Service

The Boost phones are locked with their network, the company has an official way by which you can unlock your devices provided you meet the edibility criteria. The Boost mobile phones run on the CDMA network and most of the latest phones are cross-compatible with all the carriers.

If you are planning to unlock your Boost mobile using the official method, you would need to meet up the eligibility requirements. The company will not notify you regarding eligibility criteria and thus you need to do your homework and find them all on your own. In this regard, we are here to help you and have listed the requirements you need to unlock your device as below.

The mobile must have been used and operational for at least a period of 12 months with the Boost Mobile network.
For the 12-month activation anniversary, the payment must be made within the last 90 days.
The phone should not be reported as lost or stolen.
The phone must be capable of SIM unlock (though most of the phones are).
The account standing of your Boost Mobile should be good which means there should be no unpaid bills.

Tip: Boost mobile and similar other carriers have an online compatibility checker function that can let you check if your device will work on their network or not.

The following are the procedures for unlocking Boost phones in different scenarios

Unlocking Boost Phone- Military Requirements

For the military personnel, the Boost Mobile SIM unlock will be done after the proof of deployment is submitted. Also, for the military people, there is no restriction about the minimum amount of time the Apple iPhone SE (2020) device should be used with the Boost mobile. A military account number is allowed for unlocking up to 2 devices in a year.

Unlocking Boost Phone for current existing Boost customers

If you are a current customer of Boost and meet all the unlocking eligibility criteria then the process to get your device to unlock involves the following steps.

Step 1. Call the Boost customer service contact number.

Step 2. You will be provided with a Boost mobile network unlock code.

Step 3. You need to input the provided code and your device will be unlocked.

Note: For the BoostUP! For installment plan holders, the Boost Mobile unlock Sim card process will be done in a day while for the others it might take around 2 days.

A few points that need to be taken care of during the unlocking process are as follows:

Ensure that your SIM card is in your phone else if you replace or remove the SIM card, your unlocking request might fail.
Also, make sure that your device during the phase is turned on and is also connected with the Boost Mobile Network or to a WiFi network.

Unlocking phones for the Non-Boost Customers

If you are currently not a Boost customer and have been a customer earlier or have never been a customer and have purchased from a previous owner, you can still get your phone unlocked, though the process becomes a little complicated and the following are the requirements.

You would need a Boost mobile number or an account number that was last associated with the Apple iPhone SE (2020) device.
In case you do not have the number, then you will have to get in touch with the previous owner and get these details.

And in case you do not meet either of the above two situations, Boost mobile carrier unlock on your device cannot be done and you will first need to use the Boost network for the required time and get yourself eligible for the unlocking process.

Tip: Another important point to consider before buying a device from a third party is to check with the Boost Mobile if the phone is unlocked or if it is eligible. In case you come to know that your device cannot be unlocked, you will not have to worry about the eligibility criteria or requirements.

Part3: How to Unlock Boost iPhone by Yourself [Most Efficient]

To get your device unlocked using the Boost Mobile customer service, you, first of all, need to meet their eligibility criteria. In case you are falling short on one or more of the requirements, or have purchased a second-hand device with a lock your device cannot be unlocked through the official method. So now what? No need to worry as there are third-party tools available to help you in these situations.

One of the best tools that we recommend here for unlocking your Boost iPhone is Download Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) . This versatile Windows and Mac-based software can let you unlock your Boost Mobile and move to any compatible carrier including Sprint, Verizon, T-Mobile, and more, and that too without any data loss.

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS)

Unlock Your Boost Mobile iPhone Before the Plan Expires

Support newly released models from iPhone 5s to iPhone X.
No jailbreak is needed. Unlocking iPhone without an R-SIM.
Compatible with most carriers, Boost, T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon, etc.
Move to any network operator within minutes aimlessly without data loss.

4,008,672 people have downloaded it

Using the tool, you do not need to jailbreak your device or require R-SIM for the unlocking process. The software is compatible with all the latest models ranging from iPhone 5S to iPhone X. The user-friendly interface makes the entire task of device unlocking quick, and easy.

Steps to unlock Boost Mobile using Dr.Fone Sim Unlock feature

Step 1. Download, install and launch the software of your system and from the iOS Screnn Unlock windows chose the Remove SIM Locked option.

Step 2. Clicking on the Unlock Now button will initiate the authorization verification and during this time the Apple iPhone SE (2020) should be connected to the system. Clicking on the Confirmed button will continue the process.Configuration profile will be sent to the Apple iPhone SE (2020) device.

Step 3. Next, go to Settings > WLAN. Follow the instructions and turn off WLAN. Next, re-insert your SIM card and tap Continue on the computer screen to proceed next.

Step 4. The next screen shows the progress bar of the unlocking iOS device.

Now your device is unlocked and can be used with any carrier network or SIM. The above listed are the brief steps of the process. To check the detailed steps, check the SIM Unlock Guide.

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Hot FAQs on Boost Mobile Phones

What is the Boost Mobile Unlock Code?

The Boost Mobile Unlock Code is the code provided by the Boost Mobile customer service to the eligible customers for unlocking their Boost mobile.

What Carriers are Compatible with Boost Mobile?

Currently, Boost Mobile supports T-Mobile and Sprint networks for their coverage. Though many Sprint carrier devices are not compatible with the Boost network, the unlocked devices are.

What is UICC Unlock Boost Mobile?

UICC which is an abbreviation for Universal Integrated Circuit Card is a lock to the SIM card that offers the security of the data by binding to a single data provider. The UICC Unlock Boost Mobile means that the restrictions on the SIM are removed from your phone so that it can be used with any other carrier.

Conclusion

Unlocking your Boost mobile through official ways is possible but for that, you need to have been using the carrier for at least 12 months and there are certain other requirements as well. So, if you are looking for a solution that can let you unlock your device without any eligibility criteria, requirements, or limitations Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) is the best tool. The software will quickly remove the lock from your Apple iPhone SE (2020) in a hassle-free manner.

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Best Free Apple iPhone SE (2020) IMEI Checker

Being able to check your Apple iPhone SE (2020)’s IMEI is very important for a number of reasons. First of all, if you want to IMEI unlock your device and consequently be able to use it with other carriers, you will need your IMEI number as well as your device’s status which can only be found by an IMEI checker. You may also want to know if your device has been blacklisted or locked and the only way to find that out is to do an IMEI check. Most online IMEI checkers offer the service for free but not all of them are 100% reliable to provide you with the right information every time. For this reason, we have compiled a list of the best free Apple iPhone SE (2020) IMEI checkers and how they work.

The Best Free Online Apple iPhone SE (2020) IMEI Checkers

1. Apple iPhone SE (2020) IMEI Checker

Website URL: https://iphoneimei.net/

One of the best free Apple iPhone SE (2020) IMEI checkers online is simply known as Apple iPhone SE (2020) IMEI checker. But it does more than just check IMEI. It can also be used to IMEI unlock the Apple iPhone SE (2020) for a price. The IMEI check itself is free and very easy to do. In fact that’s the main reason why this online service made it on to our list. There are no hoops to jump through, you can simply check your IMEI right there on the checker’s website.

To check Apple iPhone SE (2020) IMEI simply click on “Check Apple iPhone SE (2020) IMEI” and then enter your IMEI number to continue. You only have to wait a few moments for the website to furnish you with information about the Apple iPhone SE (2020) device.

2. IMEI Data

This is another free and highly reliable service that allow you to easily and very quickly check your Apple iPhone SE (2020) IMEI. It works for a lot of other device but unlike the first on this list it doesn’t offer any unlocking services. The website is also not very visually appealing but the important thing is that it gets the job done.

To check your Apple iPhone SE (2020)’s IMEI simply enter the IMEI number in the provided field and then click “Check.” You only have to wait a few minutes for the website to provide you with the information you need.

3. Best Free Apple iPhone SE (2020) IMEI checker

Website URL: https://www.officialiphoneunlock.co.uk/imei-network-finder.php

This one makes it on to the list because it is very easy to use. But it also comes with additional services such as Apple iPhone SE (2020) unlocking services that are affordable and highly effective. It is a great all in one solution for those who want to find out more about their device or even completely unlock it. It also supports all Apple iPhone SE (2020) models expect Apple iPhone SE (2020) 6 which they assure customers will be added very soon.

To use it just enter your IMEI number in the field provided to get the results.

4. Check IMEI

Website URL: http://www.imei.info/

This one is another great site that will check Apple iPhone SE (2020) IMEI quite easily. The setup of the site itself makes it very easy to check the Apple iPhone SE (2020). The site does offer other services such as IMEI calculator and operator codes but it doesn’t offer unlocking services. The reason why we think it is a great choice is simply because of how fast results came back. To use this service, all you need to do is enter the IMEI number and then click on “Check.”

Wait a few seconds for the website to generate results.

Click here

![free online Apple iPhone SE (2020) IMEI Checkers](https://images.wondershare.com/drfone/article/2016/06/14669476822364.jpg) ### 5\. iOS Basics

This is another great and free way to check your Apple iPhone SE (2020) IMEI. The service is automated and works very fast. The website itself also offers a lot of great information on Apple iPhone SE (2020) IMEI, unlocking and other related information. It makes it on your lost because of the fact that it has a wealth of information regarding your device.

It is also very easy to use. Like the rest of the ones, we have seen, all you need to do is enter your IMEI number and the website will provide you with the information you need about the Apple iPhone SE (2020) device. Just enter the IMEI number in the slot provided and then click “Check Me.”

Checking your Apple iPhone SE (2020) IMEI is easy and now that you have 5 of the best free online Apple iPhone SE (2020) IMEI checkers all you need is a great internet connection and you’re good to go. Let us know which one you choose and how it works out for you or if you experience any problems.