BLACK LISTING A PHONE

[BABYDR]

I recently sold my old iPhone 5S (removed from my icloud). Unfortunately, enroute to the buyer, the parcel has gone missing. I've just blacklisted it as O2 still had its IMEI number. 

Please can anyone tell me:

Is it instantly unusable ?

If recovered can O2 re-activate again?

Is it true that thifs can reset IMEI numbers ?

Many Thanks

[jonsie · Accepted solution]

It's unusable in this country but they can do all manner of things now with changing IMEI numbersIt would depend on whether it's been genuinely lost or taken intentionally for whatever purpose.

If found then yes, O2 can unblock the IMEI number for you.

Hopefully you had it insured by way of registered delivery in which case the phone would no longer be yours if you should receive a payout.

[Cleoriff]

Hi @BABYDR It will be blocked immediately it's reported (or should be)

Edited to change my comment on unblocking...I didnt think it would be done by the networks?

[Curr946]

Yeah @Cleoriff but only if @BABYDR calls back. No one else can do this, legally

[Cleoriff]

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@Curr946 wrote:
Yeah @Cleoriff but only if @BABYDR calls back. No one else can do this, legally

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Yes I realised that once I read @jonsie's comment. Legally you would have to prove ownership. Any random person finding the phone would have the request refused

[MI5]

It's just an iPod now as Apple will block the IMEI on their database which is Worldwide.

[jonsie]

I've seen quite a few stolen iphones reinvented and working again in Thailand whether blocked by Apple or not.

[MI5]

Only possible by cloning another IMEI number which will flag on the system too.

[jonsie]

Believe me I've seen it done. 

[MI5]

I do believe you.
I wasn't saying it wasn't possible.