[Hidden-tech] buying used cell phones, unlocking and functionality

[Jeff Brand]

If the IMEI is blocked, then I believe it will remain that way even when 
unlocked and moved to another GSM carrier (AT&T). It seems like it's a 
common problem. Sellers can often get rid of the phone before it shows 
up on the blocked list.

Functionality not related to cell service will work as expected: Wifi, 
GPS, camera, and email. You can work around some of the phone-like 
behavior over Wifi with various apps like WhatsApp, Google 
Hangouts/Voice, Skype, etc. However, I'm not sure if Apple takes any 
action against devices with blocked IMEIs with regard to the App Store, 
especially paid apps.

I would get a refund ASAP.


On 9/18/2014 10:41 PM, andrew bellak wrote:
>     ** Be sure to fill out the survey/skills inventory in the member's area.
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>
>
>
>
> Well buyer beware when buying a used mobile phone on eBay.
>
> I wanted to share my experience so others might save time, energy, and 
> money were they to try to buy a used phone.
>
> I have bought and sold used phones on eBay without incident until a 
> week ago.
>
> I did learn that if one is to buy an iPhone for example, you might 
> think that if the serial numbers, called IMEI or ESN are 'clean' that 
> you're in the clear.
>
> In addition to having a clean number, an iPhone will also need to be 
> icloud unlocked.
>
> What I learned is that there is a risk that the original owner may be 
> making installment payments OR owe a balance from an early termination 
> fee.
>
> So if that original owner becomes delinquent on debts, the carrier 
> shuts off the signal to the phone. T-Mobile in this case would not 
> tell me how much was owed nor would they allow me to pay the original 
> owner's debt even if I wanted to.
>
> This is ridiculous in my opinion.
>
> So if you're going to pursue this avenue, get the serial number first 
> and call the carrier and clear it with them.
>
> UNLOCKING
> This leads me to ask about unlocking an iPhone.
>
> If we unlock the phone, free it from the carrier, I would like to know 
> how well the phone may function afterwards.  Will it work fine for 
> calling, camera, maps/gps, texting, and email?
>
> Other apps and games are not really of interest.
>
> I'm not sure I'll ever buy a used phone again unless I know the person 
> and can be assured that it's free and clear.
>
> Thanks
> Andrew
>
> Andrew Bellak
> CEO
> Registered Investment Advisor
>
> andrew at StakeHoldersCapital.com
> www.StakeHoldersCapital.com <http://www.StakeHoldersCapital.com>
> (o) 888-STK-HLDR (785-4537) x.2
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> skype = andrewbellak
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