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

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

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What to do if your Apple iPhone SE 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 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.

iPhone imei number check

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 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 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 device reported the Apple iPhone SE 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 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 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 is blacklisted?

Checking if your Apple iPhone SE 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 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 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 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 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.

iPhone blacklisted imei

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.

iPhone blacklisted imei

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.

iPhone has bad esn

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. However, in doing so you should be prepared for some possible irreparable damage.

iPhone blacklisted imei

Unlock it and then Sell it

After your unlock your Apple iPhone SE 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 if you throw in a big enough discount.

iPhone has bad esn

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.

what if iPhone has bad esn

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.

iPhone bad esn

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.

bad esn iPhone 7

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.

iPhone 6s bad esn

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 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 device is the most straightforward way to unlock it. They may require clear documentation proving ownership of the Apple iPhone SE 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 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.

iphone imei check

Q: I am the owner of the Apple iPhone SE 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 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.

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 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 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.

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

Is your Apple iPhone SE locked to a specific carrier? Losing a complete hold of your Apple iPhone SE 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.

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, 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

Check the “Network Provider Lock”

Before you go for a solution to unlock your Apple iPhone SE, 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.

about in general

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

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

network provider lock

Try a SIM card from another carrier

Follow the steps below:

  1. Switch off your Apple iPhone SE
  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 is locked if you get an error message. If you can make the call and connect, your Apple iPhone SE is unlocked.

try a sim card

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

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

How to unlock the Apple iPhone SE 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

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 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 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 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.

att

How to unlock the Apple iPhone SE 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 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#.

tmobile

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.

doctorsim

### 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 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, you have to do the following:

First, it has to be legal. It means the Apple iPhone SE 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. 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.”

drfone

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

screen unlock

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

start to remove

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

quickly remove

Step6: Jailbreaking your Apple iPhone SE 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.

jailbreak

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

how to unlock an iphone se

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

unlock iphone se

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.

iphone se unlocked verizon

The Bottom Line

So, these are the ways to find out if your Apple iPhone SE is locked and the four ways to unlock it if it is. You can get your Apple iPhone SE 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 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.

How to Remove Apple iPhone SE SIM Lock?

drfone

Have you purchased a second-hand Apple iPhone SE that is carrier locked? It would be a very frustrating situation. You can’t use any SIM card other than one cellular company’s sim card. So, whatever the case is, in this article, we will show you how to remove the SIM lock on your device.

In this article, we’ll talk about some popular tools to unlock Apple iPhone SE. After reading this article, I hope your Apple iPhone SE will be free from any lock, and you can do what you want in your Apple iPhone SE.

iPhone IMEI

This site offers iPhone IMEI unlocking services. There are mixed reviews about this site. Some customers called its SIM card activation service very good, while others complained about its services.

unlock iphone 8 plus

Rating from Trustpilot 3.2
User Reviews Mixed reviews
Pricing Plans Unlock service for 19$ or 29$
Supported iOS Versions All versions: upto iOS 16
Pros & Cons According to customer reviews, this site is not trustable.

DoctorSIM

doctorSIM offers services for unlocking a cell phone. Apart from Apple, this site also offers the facility to unlock phones of many brands. Most of the customers are very happy with their services. So, this site has been able to win customers’ trust by delivering top-notch unlocking services.

doctorsim

Rating from Trustpilot 4.7
User Reviews A lot of positive reviews
Pricing Plans Depend upon the model of the Apple iPhone SE device.
Supported iOS Versions All versions: upto iOS 16
Pros & Cons Pros
· It supports unlocking almost all brands and some less well-known brands.
· A strong and effective tool that can unlock all phones with a 99% success rate.
Cons
· Device unlock can take up to seven days.
· According to many reviews, the doctorSIM unlock service doesn’t work.

Unlock Phone SIM

This site says it can help you unlock your phone from AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, Verizon, and many more. They say their service can unlock all iPhone, iPad, and watch models.

sim locked

Rating from Trustpilot 4.2
User Reviews Mixed reviews: some people appreciated their services while some said: it is a scam.
Pricing Plans Depending on the model of your device, the price to unlock iCloud ranges from $175 to $301. From $24.00, you can pre-order a service to check your suitability.
Supported iOS Versions All versions: upto iOS 16
Pros & Cons Pros
· This service has a 4.2 rating on Trustpilot.
Cons
· A large number of negative reviews.

Cellunlocker

On the Cellunlocker website, you can purchase unlock codes and services for locked mobiles. If your Apple iPhone SE is locked to a carrier or your Apple iPhone SE’s activation lock is turned on, this website may assist you in removing those locks.

cellunlocker

Rating from Trustpilot 4.6
User Reviews They are legit and have a remarkable number of satisfied customers.
Pricing Plans Depend on the model of the Apple iPhone SE device.
Supported iOS Versions All versions: upto iOS 16
Pros & Cons Pros
· Structures for ordering and paying are made much easier.
· Customers from more than 180 countries are served.
· The website is easy for anyone to use.
· The unlock codes they give are correct 95.5% of the time.
Cons
· It can’t unlock phones bought in the USA after January 2013.
· The refund rules are strict; they may even ask you to send a video of the unlocking procedure as evidence.

Best Software for Apple iPhone SE SIM Unlock

Dr.Fone is a complete toolbox for your device solutions. For Dr.Fone-Screen Unlock, it’ll cost little time to remove the SIM lock from almost every carrier on your Apple iPhone SE. And here you can learn how to use Dr.Fone to remove your problem with data security.

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS)

Step1: In the first step, Install Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) on your computer.

Step2: After you’ve set up Wondershare Dr.Fone on your computer, launch it. You will see the “Screen Unlock,” choose it and start the unlocking process.

how to unlock iphone 8

Step3: If you want to remove the network restriction on your device, select “Remove SIM Locked” in the following box.

screen unlock

Step4: To get started unlocking your iOS device for use with a different SIM card, hit “Start” when it is ready.

unlock iphone 8 plus

Step5: After then, the software locates the connected iPhone and provides a list of details about it. After making sure everything is correct, pick “Unlock Now.”

quickly remove

Step6: Before you can continue, you must first jailbreak your Apple iPhone SE. This method works on iPhones 5S to X running iOS 12.0 to 14.8.1. To learn about technology, you must either read the instruction or watch the video.

jailbreak

Step7: The following step is to perform a few quick tasks on your iOS device. Go to “Settings” and remove the SIM card from the smartphone. On each connection you’ve made in the “WLAN” section, tap “Forget This Network.” After finishing, turn off “WLAN” and insert the SIM card into your iOS device. To continue with the procedure, click “Continue” on the screen.

sim card

Step8: The status bar shows the SIM unlocking process’s current status.

removing lock

Step9: In the end, when you see the blue phone image turn green, you can now use your phone with the service provider you want.

lock removed

Bravo! Now you can use any SIM plan from any network.

Contact Your Carrier to Unlock iPhone 8/8Plus

If your Apple iPhone SE is locked, then it must be for some reason. The carrier who has set this lock can provide the best solution.

Check the unlock prerequisites

To check the unlock prerequisites, Go to Settings > General > About to find out if your Apple iPhone SE is locked. Your Apple iPhone SE is unlocked if it says “No SIM restrictions” next to “Carrier Lock.”

Contact the carrier for the unlock code

Large cell phone companies often offer discounted devices to customers who sign an agreement for set time frames. Because of this, the Apple iPhone SE device comes with a controller lock so customers can only use it on their network. If your contract with the company is over, you can get out of it for free. Before you can unlock your Apple iPhone SE, you must meet the following requirements:

First of all, it must be a legal device. It means the Apple iPhone SE device is not reported as lost, stolen. Then your bank account must not have any financial debts. If you signed a contract in exchange for a lower up-front cost, you’d have to wait until your contract ends (usually 24 months) or pay the remaining balance if you purchased your phone on a payment schedule.

Most carriers need active accounts for specific days before unlocking devices. Sprint has 50 days, T-Mobile 40, and AT&T 60. Verizon has no minimum period if you need to factory reset your phone to use the new network and back up beforehand.

Insert a new SIM card to unlock your device

If you have a non-carrier SIM card, complete iPhone unlocking using these steps:

  • Turn off your device.
  • SIM card out.
  • Insert the new SIM. Your device will be activated.

Conclusion

So, this was an overview of some popular unlocking tools for Apple iPhone SE. The most accurate and effective tool to unlock carrier-locked iPhones is Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS). If your Apple iPhone SE is locked, then it must be for some reason. The carrier who has set this lock can provide the best solution. However, Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock can unlock any lock.


  • Title: What to do if your Apple iPhone SE has bad ESN or blacklisted IMEI?
  • Author: Abner
  • Created at : 2024-07-16 16:44:01
  • Updated at : 2024-07-17 16:44:01
  • Link: https://sim-unlock.techidaily.com/what-to-do-if-your-apple-iphone-se-has-bad-esn-or-blacklisted-imei-by-drfone-ios/
  • License: This work is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0.
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What to do if your Apple iPhone SE has bad ESN or blacklisted IMEI?