How to Fix Blocked iPhone IMEI: Complete Guide & Best Tools

A blocked iPhone IMEI is a frustrating problem that renders your device almost useless for making calls, sending texts, or using mobile data. The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique number that identifies your iPhone to cellular networks, and when it’s blocked, it restricts the phone from accessing network services. But the good news is that there are several solutions available to fix a blocked iPhone IMEI, and this guide will walk you through the process step by step.

What is an IMEI and Why Does It Get Blocked?

An IMEI number is a unique identifier assigned to every mobile device. It acts like a fingerprint for your iPhone, allowing carriers to manage network access for each device. If your IMEI gets blocked, the phone is effectively blacklisted, making it unable to connect to any cellular network.

Reasons Why IMEIs Get Blocked:

Reported Lost or Stolen: If a device is reported lost or stolen, the carrier can block the IMEI to prevent it from being used. This helps protect the original owner from theft and unauthorized use.
Unpaid Bills: In cases where a user has an unpaid balance with their carrier, the carrier can block the IMEI until the outstanding amount is settled.
Fraudulent Activity: If a phone has been involved in any illegal or fraudulent activity, it can be blocked by authorities or the carrier.
Carrier Locks: Sometimes, a carrier will lock a device’s IMEI to their network if the phone is purchased under a contract or installment plan. This means the phone cannot be used on other networks until the financial obligations are met.

The Impact of a Blocked IMEI:

When your iPhone’s IMEI is blocked, it will no longer function on most cellular networks. You won’t be able to make calls, send texts, or access mobile data, essentially reducing the device to a Wi-Fi-only device. This can be extremely limiting, especially if your iPhone is your primary device for communication.

Why Should You Fix a Blocked iPhone IMEI?

A blocked iPhone IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) can cause significant disruption to your phone’s functionality. When your iPhone’s IMEI is blocked, it essentially becomes blacklisted, restricting its access to mobile networks. This can happen for several reasons, such as the phone being reported lost or stolen, unpaid bills, or fraudulent activities associated with the device. Fixing a blocked IMEI is essential to restore your phone’s usability, value, and reliability.

1. Restore Full Functionality

The most obvious reason to fix a blocked IMEI is to regain full access to your iPhone’s network capabilities. A blocked IMEI prevents your iPhone from making calls, sending texts, or using mobile data. This reduces your device to a Wi-Fi-only device, limiting its primary functions. Unblocking the IMEI restores these capabilities, allowing you to use your phone as intended on any carrier’s network.

2. Increase Resale Value

A blocked iPhone has little to no resale value because it can’t function on most cellular networks. If you plan on selling or trading in your iPhone, an IMEI block will significantly reduce the price you can command. Fixing the blocked IMEI unlocks the potential for a much higher resale value. Buyers are more inclined to purchase an unblocked phone because it can be used across different carriers, making it a more attractive option.

3. Avoid the Cost of Buying a New Device

Buying a new iPhone can be expensive, and if your IMEI is blocked, your first instinct might be to replace the phone altogether. However, this can be a costly and unnecessary expense. Fixing the IMEI is a far more cost-effective solution compared to purchasing a new device. Unlocking services typically range from $15 to $90, depending on the carrier and model, which is significantly cheaper than buying a new iPhone.

4. Use Your iPhone Internationally

Once your iPhone’s IMEI is unblocked, you gain the freedom to use it with multiple carriers worldwide. This is especially beneficial for those who travel internationally. With an unblocked IMEI, you can simply swap SIM cards from different carriers, giving you the flexibility to use local networks without worrying about restrictions.

How to Fix a Blocked iPhone IMEI

A blocked iPhone IMEI can prevent your device from connecting to mobile networks, effectively rendering it useless for calls, texts, and data usage. Fortunately, there are methods to unblock your iPhone’s IMEI and restore its functionality. This tutorial will guide you through the steps to fix a blocked iPhone IMEI, whether it was blocked due to being reported as lost or stolen, unpaid bills, or carrier restrictions.

Step 1: Check the IMEI Status

Before proceeding with unlocking, it’s essential to verify if your iPhone’s IMEI is indeed blocked. To check your iPhone’s IMEI status, follow these steps:

Dial *#06# on your iPhone to display the IMEI number.
Copy the IMEI number and visit an online IMEI checker, such as IMEI24 or DoctorSIM.
Enter the IMEI number in the checker to see if it’s blacklisted.

If the report shows your iPhone’s IMEI as blocked or blacklisted, you’ll need to proceed with unlocking.

Step 2: Contact Your Carrier

In some cases, the fastest way to resolve a blocked IMEI is by contacting the original carrier. Carriers can block your iPhone’s IMEI for unpaid bills, contract issues, or if the phone was reported as lost or stolen. To resolve this:

Contact the carrier’s customer support: Explain the issue and request for IMEI unblocking.
Resolve outstanding payments: If your iPhone was blocked due to unpaid bills or contract disputes, settle the outstanding amounts.
Provide proof of ownership: If the phone was reported as stolen and later recovered, providing documentation of ownership can help.

While this step doesn’t guarantee success in all cases, carriers may unblock the IMEI if there’s a valid reason.

Step 3: Use a Professional IMEI Unlock Service

If contacting your carrier does not resolve the issue, the most effective method to unblock your iPhone’s IMEI is by using a professional unlocking service. These services specialize in fixing blocked IMEIs and work remotely. Here’s how to use a professional IMEI unlock service:

Choose a Reputable IMEI Unlock Service: Some of the top services include:
- DoctorSIM
- UnlockBase
- IMEI Authority
Enter Your IMEI Number: On the service’s website, enter your iPhone’s IMEI number and select the carrier that blocked your iPhone.
Make the Payment: Unlocking services typically range from $15 to $90, depending on the carrier and model of your iPhone.
Wait for the Unlock: The service will remotely process the unlock. This usually takes between 24 to 72 hours.
Confirmation: Once the unlock is complete, you’ll receive an email confirming that your iPhone’s IMEI is unblocked. You can then restart your iPhone and begin using it normally.

Step 4: Verify the Unblock

After the service completes the process, verify that your iPhone is working:

Insert a SIM card from any carrier.
Restart your iPhone.
Ensure that the iPhone can make calls, send texts, and access mobile data.

Best IMEI Unlocking Services to Fix a Blocked iPhone IMEI

Here are the top 5 IMEI unlocking services that can help fix a blocked iPhone IMEI. These services are reliable, have high success rates, and offer customer support throughout the unlocking process.

1. DoctorSIM

DoctorSIM is a trusted provider of IMEI unlocking services. They offer an easy-to-use platform that allows you to unlock your iPhone from any carrier.

Price: $20 – $60
Use Case: Suitable for iPhones blocked due to unpaid bills or reported stolen.
Features: Remote service, fast processing times, permanent unlock, support for most carriers worldwide.
Advantages: DoctorSIM is known for its quick turnaround and high success rate.
Disadvantages: Prices may vary depending on the carrier and region.

2. IMEI Authority

IMEI Authority specializes in unlocking iPhone IMEIs across various regions and carriers. They provide affordable and permanent solutions.

Price: $15 – $50
Use Case: Ideal for users needing a fast and affordable unlock solution.
Features: Quick service, lifetime unlock guarantee, global carrier support.
Advantages: Known for affordability and fast results.
Disadvantages: May not work for phones with severe fraud-related blocks.

3. UnlockBase

UnlockBase has been in the IMEI unlocking business for years and provides reliable services for blocked iPhone IMEIs.

Price: $25 – $75
Use Case: Recommended for more complex IMEI block cases.
Features: Wide carrier support, permanent unlocking, remote service.
Advantages: Excellent customer support, good reputation in the market.
Disadvantages: Slightly higher price range for complex cases.

4. iPhoneIMEI.net

iPhoneIMEI.net offers specialized services for iPhone users who are dealing with blocked IMEIs, especially in the US and Europe.

Price: $30 – $90
Use Case: Best for users with region-specific blocks in the US or Europe.
Features: High success rate, permanent unlock, global carrier support.
Advantages: High reliability in unlocking region-specific blocks.
Disadvantages: Higher price for certain carriers and models.

5. CellUnlocker

CellUnlocker provides an affordable way to unblock iPhone IMEIs and is known for its ease of use and comprehensive customer support.

Price: $20 – $70
Use Case: Great for users with carrier restrictions or unpaid dues.
Features: Easy-to-use platform, online chat support, multi-carrier compatibility.
Advantages: Excellent customer support and affordability.
Disadvantages: Processing times can vary based on the carrier.

Comparison of IMEI Unlocking Services

Service	Price Range	Features	Use Case	Success Rate
DoctorSIM	$20 – $60	Remote unlock, fast service	Blocked due to unpaid bills or stolen reports	High
IMEI Authority	$15 – $50	Quick unlock, lifetime guarantee	Fast IMEI repair for global carriers	Very High
UnlockBase	$25 – $75	Complex case support, wide carriers	Complex IMEI block cases	High
iPhoneIMEI.net	$30 – $90	High success rate, region-specific	Blocked IMEIs in the US and Europe	High
CellUnlocker	$20 – $70	Easy-to-use, affordable	Blocked due to network restrictions	Very High

Benefits of Using Professional IMEI Unlocking Services

Using a professional service to unblock your iPhone’s IMEI comes with several advantages:

Convenience: Unlocking services handle the entire process for you. All you need to provide is your IMEI number and carrier information.
Affordability: Compared to purchasing a new device, unlocking services are cost-effective and provide a permanent solution to the problem.
Wide Carrier Support: Once your iPhone is unlocked, it can be used with multiple carriers worldwide, giving you greater flexibility, especially if you travel frequently.
High Success Rates: Most professional services have a very high success rate, ensuring that your blocked iPhone can be restored to full functionality.

How to Purchase an IMEI Unlock Service

Step-by-Step Guide

Choose a Trusted Service: Select a reputable service like DoctorSIM, IMEI Authority, or UnlockBase.
Check Carrier Compatibility: Make sure the service supports your iPhone’s carrier. Some services specialize in specific regions or carriers, so it’s important to verify.
Provide IMEI Number: Dial *#06# on your iPhone to retrieve your IMEI number and enter it into the unlock service’s form.
Make the Payment: Prices range from $15 to $90 depending on the service and iPhone model.
Wait for the Unlock: Most services will process the unlock within 24 to 72 hours. You’ll receive an email confirmation when the unlock is complete.

Affiliate Links:

DoctorSIM Unlock Service
IMEI Authority Unlock
UnlockBase IMEI Service

5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Fixing Blocked iPhone IMEI

1. Why was my iPhone’s IMEI blocked?

Your IMEI could be blocked due to a variety of reasons, including the phone being reported lost or stolen, unpaid bills with your carrier, or fraud.

2. Can I unblock an iPhone IMEI for free?

In most cases, professional unlocking services are paid, but if the block was a mistake, contacting the original carrier may resolve it without cost.

3. How long does it take to unblock an iPhone IMEI?

The process typically takes between 24 to 72 hours, depending on the service provider and carrier.

4. Can I use my iPhone on any network after the IMEI is unblocked?

Yes, once unblocked, you can use your iPhone on any compatible network, both domestically and internationally.

5. Is it legal to unblock an iPhone IMEI?

Yes, unblocking an iPhone’s IMEI is legal, provided the phone was acquired legally and you are the rightful owner.