Why Check if an iPhone is Lost or Stolen?

Buying a used iPhone that turns out to be reported lost or stolen is the worst-case scenario for any buyer. A lost/stolen device is permanently blacklisted by Apple and carriers — it cannot be activated, cannot be unlocked, and has zero resale value.

Our free iCloud lost/stolen checker queries Apple's Find My network and global databases to tell you instantly whether the device is Clean or Lost. Running this check takes seconds and can save you hundreds of dollars from buying a stolen phone.

What Does "iCloud Clean" Mean?

iCloud Clean = the device has NOT been reported lost or stolen and is NOT locked to an Apple ID. This is the ideal status for any used Apple device you plan to buy. A "Clean" result means the previous owner properly signed out of their Apple ID and the device is ready for a new user.

What Does "iCloud Lost" Mean?

iCloud Lost = the device has been reported as lost or stolen through Apple's Find My iPhone system. A "Lost" device displays a lock screen message, cannot be erased, and cannot be activated with a new Apple ID. Never buy a device with Lost status.

What Our iCloud Lost/Stolen Check Reveals

• Clean / Lost Status — Instant verification: is the device clean or reported lost/stolen?
• Find My iPhone Status — Is Find My iPhone ON or OFF? A device with FMI ON is tied to an Apple ID.
• iCloud Lock Status — Check if Activation Lock is enabled, which prevents device setup.
• Lost Mode Details — If the device is in Lost Mode, see when it was marked lost.
• Device Information — Model name, serial number, IMEI details for verification.

How to Spot a Stolen iPhone Before Buying

1. Run a Lost/Stolen check first — Use this page to verify the device is "Clean" BEFORE meeting the seller or sending payment.
2. Ask the seller to show Settings — On the device, go to Settings → [Name] → Find My. If they refuse, walk away.
3. Check the Activation Lock screen — If the device shows "Activation Lock" during setup, it's tied to someone's Apple ID.
4. Verify IMEI matches the box — Compare the IMEI in Settings → General → About with the IMEI on the original box.
5. Avoid deals that seem too good — If the price is significantly below market value, it could be stolen.
6. Meet in public places — Legitimate sellers will agree to meet at a police station or Apple Store.

How to Find Your iCloud Lost/Stolen IMEI

There are several easy ways to locate your IMEI number:

• Settings App — Go to Settings → About Phone → Status and look for the IMEI information.
• Dial *#06# — Open the Phone dialer and type *#06#. Your IMEI will appear instantly.
• Original Box — The IMEI is printed on the barcode label on the original packaging.
• SIM Card Tray — On some models, the IMEI is engraved on the SIM tray.

Compatible iCloud Lost/Stolen Devices

Don't see your model? You can still run the check — the report will detect the exact model automatically.

iCloud Lost/Stolen IMEI — FAQ

Why Use Verimei for iCloud Lost/Stolen IMEI Checks?