Fake and cloned phones are common, especially when buying from markets, social media sellers or “UK used” dealers. Knowing how to check if a phone is original can save you a lot of money and stress. This guide shows seven simple checks you can do in minutes, before you pay.
Contents
- Why fake phones are a problem
- How to check if a phone is original: 7 easy ways
- 1. Check the IMEI number
- 2. Look at the build quality
- 3. Check the software and settings
- 4. Test the official app store and account
- 5. Run a benchmark or hardware check
- 6. Check the box and accessories
- 7. Test the camera, screen and battery
- How to tell if a phone is original when buying online
- Quick checklist to take to the shop
- Is the phone original but stolen?
- What to buy instead
- Frequently asked questions
- What code shows if a phone is original?
- Can a fake phone have a real IMEI?
- Is a phone with a missing charger fake?
- Related on Froshvibes
Why fake phones are a problem
A fake phone may look perfect in the box. Yet it often has a weak processor, a poor camera and a battery that dies quickly. It may also run modified software that hides malware. Fakes rarely get security updates, and they have no valid warranty.
Cloned phones are a bigger risk. They copy the design of a real brand and even fake the “About phone” screen. So you need more than one check.
How to check if a phone is original: 7 easy ways
Use several of these checks together. One test alone can be fooled. Three or four together give you a reliable answer.
1. Check the IMEI number
Every genuine phone has a unique IMEI number. Dial *#06# on the phone to display it. Then compare it with the IMEI printed on the box and in Settings › About phone. All three must match.
Next, enter the IMEI on a trusted IMEI checker. For Apple devices, use Apple’s official check coverage page with the serial number. The result should show the exact model you are buying.
2. Look at the build quality
Original phones feel solid. Buttons click cleanly and there are no gaps around the frame. Check the logo, the printing on the back and the SIM tray. Blurry text, rough edges or a light, hollow feel are warning signs.
3. Check the software and settings
Open Settings › About phone. Check the model number, storage and RAM. Then compare them with the official specifications on the brand’s website. A fake often claims more storage than it really has.
Also look at the software. Samsung phones run One UI, Xiaomi phones run HyperOS and iPhones run iOS. A fake usually runs a strange, laggy copy of the brand’s software.
4. Test the official app store and account
A genuine Android phone should open the Google Play Store and sign in to a Google account normally. An iPhone should sign in to the App Store with an Apple ID. If the store is missing, or replaced with an unknown app store, walk away.
5. Run a benchmark or hardware check
Install a free app such as CPU-Z or a benchmark app from the Play Store. It shows the real chipset, RAM and storage. A “flagship” that reports a cheap, unknown chip is fake.
6. Check the box and accessories
Original boxes have sharp printing, the correct model and a sticker with the IMEI and serial number. Spelling mistakes, poor fonts or loose stickers suggest a fake. Remember that many brands no longer include a charger, so a missing charger alone is not a red flag.
7. Test the camera, screen and battery
Take a few photos and videos. Zoom in and check the detail. Look at the screen at an angle for odd colours. Finally, check battery health where available, such as Settings › Battery on an iPhone.
How to tell if a phone is original when buying online
- Buy from official brand stores or authorised dealers where possible.
- Avoid prices that look far too cheap. They usually are.
- Ask the seller for the IMEI before payment, then check it.
- Insist on a receipt and a written warranty.
- Prefer payment on delivery so you can inspect the phone first.
Quick checklist to take to the shop
Save this list on your phone before you go shopping. Run through it with the seller before money changes hands.
- Dial *#06# and note the IMEI.
- Match it with the box sticker and Settings › About phone.
- Check the model number against the brand’s website.
- Sign in to the Play Store or App Store.
- Run a hardware info app to confirm the chipset and RAM.
- Test the cameras, speakers, microphone and charging port.
- Insert your SIM and make a short call.
- Ask for a receipt that lists the IMEI and warranty period.
If the seller refuses any of these checks, treat it as a warning. An honest seller has nothing to hide.
Is the phone original but stolen?
An original phone can still be a bad buy if it is stolen or blacklisted. Ask the seller to sign out of their Google account or Apple ID in front of you. An iPhone still locked to someone else’s Apple ID cannot be used. Also confirm the phone accepts your SIM card.
What to buy instead
If you want a reliable new phone at a fair price, look at official budget models. Our guide to the TECNO SPARK 50 price in Nigeria covers one popular option. For a premium choice, see the Honor 600 Pro specs. Then protect your new device with our phone security tips.
Frequently asked questions
What code shows if a phone is original?
Dial *#06# to show the IMEI. Then confirm it matches the box and Settings, and check it online.
Can a fake phone have a real IMEI?
Yes. Some clones copy a real IMEI. That is why you should also check the hardware, software and model number.
Is a phone with a missing charger fake?
Not necessarily. Many brands now ship phones without a charger.
Related on Froshvibes
