What is an IMEI Number? #
An IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number is a special code that helps identify a phone or tablet. Think of it as a fingerprint for mobile devices—each one has a unique number that no other device shares. These numbers contain 15 digits and people use them worldwide to help track and protect phones.
For small businesses, understanding these numbers keeps track of company phones, prevents loss, and improves security. If you rely on mobile devices for work, knowing how it numbers work can help you stay organized and protect your business.
Why IMEI Numbers Matter for Small Businesses #
As your business grows, managing company phones and tablets can become difficult. Some may lose, steal, or misuse items. International Mobile Equipment Identity numbers help in many ways:
- Inventory Management – Keep track of devices assigned to employees.
- Security – Prevent the use of lost or stolen phones.
- Fraud Prevention – Determine if employees are using company devices improperly.
- Compliance – Ensure devices follow telecom rules.
- Cost Savings – Reduce the risk of replacing lost phones.
Using IMEI numbers wisely can make your business run more smoothly and save money over time.
How Small Businesses Can Use IMEI Numbers #
1. Keep an Inventory of Devices
Running a small business often means managing phones, tablets, and other mobile devices. Keeping a list of device IMEI numbers helps you track how many devices you own, who is using them, and where they are.
📌 Example: If an employee leaves the company and forgets to return their work phone, you can use the IMEI number to track or block the device.
2. Improve Security and Find Lost Devices
IMEI numbers can help protect your devices. If a phone is lost or stolen, reporting the IMEI number to the network provider blocks the device from being used on most networks.
📌 Example: A small business lost one of its delivery driver’s tablets. By reporting the IMEI number, the company stopped anyone from accessing business data from the device.
3. Prevent Fraud
IMEI tracking helps businesses monitor how their devices are used. If an unknown device tries to access company data, checking the IMEI can reveal unauthorized activities.
📌 Example: A retail business noticed strange login attempts. After checking IMEI records, they discovered an unknown device was trying to access sensitive files.
4. Stay Compliant with Regulations
In many countries, telecom laws require businesses to track devices used for work. Keeping a record of IMEI numbers ensures compliance with these legal requirements and avoids penalties.
5. Reduce Costs by Managing Devices Better
Replacing lost or stolen office phones can be expensive. By tracking and blocking lost IMEI numbers, small businesses save money and reduce unnecessary expenses.
📌 Example: A startup reduced its device loss by 20% after implementing a simple IMEI tracking system.
How to Use IMEI Numbers the Right Way #
1. Find Your IMEI Number
You can find the IMEI number on a mobile device by:
- Dialling *#06# on the phone.
- Checking the “About Phone” section in settings.
- Looking under the battery or on the phone’s original box.
2. Create an IMEI Database
A safe way to manage company-owned devices is by keeping an updated list of IMEI numbers. This database should include:
- The device’s IMEI number
- The employee using it
- The device type (phone, tablet, etc.)
Regularly updating this list will help you track company assets, especially when you add or remove new devices.
3. Use IMEI Tracking Software
📌 Example: A logistics company found a missing delivery phone because their software monitored IMEI movements.
4. Report Stolen or Lost Devices Immediately
If a device goes missing, contact your network provider immediately to report the IMEI. Blocking it keeps others from using the phone.
Real-Life Success Stories #
Logistics Company Recovered Stolen Devices
A logistics firm lost several phones during transportation. Thanks to their IMEI tracking database, they quickly reported the missing devices to the network provider. Within two weeks, authorities recovered most of the stolen equipment.
Retail Store Discovered Fraudulent Use of Company Devices
A retail business found that an employee was using a company phone for personal deliveries. By checking device IMEIs, they confirmed unauthorized activity and took action.
How The Vyapar App Helps #
- Inventory Management – Track and store IMEI numbers for each product, making it easy to manage stock.
- Billing & Invoicing – Generate invoices with IMEI numbers to maintain records for sales and warranty tracking.
- Cloud Backup & Security – Securely store IMEI records with automatic backup to prevent data loss.
- Fraud Prevention – Maintain accurate records to prevent duplicate sales or fraudulent returns.
FAQ’s: #
What does an IMEI number do?
It helps identify and track mobile devices.
How can I find the IMEI number on my phone?
Dial *#06# or check the “About Phone” section in settings.
Is changing an IMEI number legal?
No, changing an IMEI number is illegal in many countries.
How do IMEI numbers help prevent theft?
If someone loses or steals a phone, they can report the IMEI number to block the device.
Can two phones have the same IMEI number?
No, unless someone has illegally cloned a phone.
Final Thoughts #
IMEI numbers are powerful tools for small businesses. They help track mobile devices, improve security, and prevent theft or fraud. Setting up a simple IMEI tracking system can save your company money and ensure better control over work devices.
For businesses that need simple IMEI management, apps like Vyapar can help. They track, store, and secure device information. This makes business operations easier and safer.