How to prevent Bad ESN

[fre33way]

I am thinking about buying a used verizon or att iphone 5s from ebay or craigslist. Craigslist is definately cheaper but how do I make sure the seller doesn't report the phone lost after I buy it (maybe a month later or so)? I am going to use the phone on tmobile.

 

[H2K03]

I am thinking about buying a used verizon or att iphone 5s from ebay or craigslist. Craigslist is definately cheaper but how do I make sure the seller doesn't report the phone lost after I buy it (maybe a month later or so)? I am going to use the phone on tmobile.

You can check on T-Mobile's own checker online to see if it's blacklisted:

https://www.t-mobile.com/verifyIMEI.aspx

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But if they decide to report it stolen afterwards, nothing you can do about that unfortunately. It's a risk you'll have to take with Craigslist.

 

[fre33way]

You can check on T-Mobile's own checker online to see if it's blacklisted:

https://www.t-mobile.com/verifyIMEI.aspx

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But if they decide to report it stolen afterwards, nothing you can do about that unfortunately. It's a risk you'll have to take with Craigslist.

Is there a place to buy iphones without taking a risk? or maybe less than craigslist?

 

[brun019822]

I am thinking about buying a used verizon or att iphone 5s from ebay or craigslist. Craigslist is definately cheaper but how do I make sure the seller doesn't report the phone lost after I buy it (maybe a month later or so)? I am going to use the phone on tmobile.

Even if they report it stolen you would still be able to use it on tmobile.

 

[taedouni]

If you're buying it in person, meet the seller at a carrier store so that you can activate it with them there to make sure that it works fine. When I sell phones I always meet people there to avoid any problems. I always ask for the money first though then walk in the store with them.

 

[H2K03]

Is there a place to buy iphones without taking a risk? or maybe less than craigslist?

eBay generally has less risk because of the seller reputation. You can always dispute with Paypal if you have an issue with an eBay phone.