The most frequently asked question by people who want to purchase a new phone is whether their mobile phone is real or fake. People are generally interested in purchasing a used, refurbished, or second-hand phone. Let’s explore and learn how you can detect a Fake Clone and avoid buying it.
Know Specs and Features
A smartphone’s specifications and features are always important to know before purchasing. Before buying a doubtful phone, do some online or offline research. Check out the phone’s specs and features on the official website. See the available colors, warranty, and hardware/software configuration. These details are provided on all top mobile phone manufacturers’ official websites.
Fake mobile phones manufactured by counterfeit companies will try to look as much like the originals as they possibly can. Copies their appearance, color, logo, label, packaging, accessories, etc. There can never be an exact replica of an original phone’s hardware and software, which is why it can be identified.
Read Also: How To Fix The iPhone Touch Screen Not Working Problem
Check IMEI Number
Mobile equipment identification is called the IMEI. On the front or the back of the mobile phone, you can find this identifier. IMEI numbers can be obtained by dialing *#06# on mobile phones, smartphones, and Apple iPhones. A mobile device’s IMEI number is always unique.
- The IMEI number in fake counterfeit phones is often fake or not valid.
- By using the 15-digit IMEI number, you can determine the device’s validity and other information about it, including its manufacturer and model.
How To Check If A Phone Is Fake Or Original
Check Brand Name and Logo
False and counterfeit mobile phones generally do not use the original registered trademarks and logos of major mobile phone brands. Otherwise, they will be facing legal proceedings. Thus, they use the same names and logos as the originals. To illustrate the point, here are a few examples:
- “Samsung” may also be referred to as Samsung or Samson
- iPhone = iPhone/iPhone
- Huawei – Huawei, also known as Huawei
Appearance and Functionality
Real phones and fake phones can look almost identical to each other. However, if you observe closely, it’s easy to tell the difference. Materials, colors, button locations, brand names, logos, etc. all fluctuate from time to time.
A fake phone makes with cheap components and materials. It’s also not affordable for them to use original operating systems; instead, they use the pirated system.
Availability Of The Phone
A large number of counterfeit mobile phone manufacturers target popular and out-of-stock models. Fake phones are the result of people searching for these Out of Stock Models due to their popularity. So, fake phones are usually sold at online auction sites.
These fake phones are often sold by illegals by claiming that they need money urgently or that they have stolen them. Be careful of such scams.
Read More: How Do I Use Google Reverse Image Search
Spot Fake Battery and Charger
Make sure the phone’s battery and charger are visible. Batteries and chargers are always more expensive for counterfeits. So, they cannot afford originals.
Warranty
Make sure that the warranty certificate is in writing for 12 months. The warranty period on fake phones is shorter because they can’t guarantee the device will last that long.
Make sure you buy your phones and accessories only from reputable manufacturers. Low prices are never a good deal.