How to Register a Lost Mobile Complaint Without IMEI Number

Losing a mobile phone can be stressful, especially if it contains important data, contacts, or financial apps. One of the first steps after losing a phone is registering a complaint online or at the nearest police station. Many people wonder whether they can lodge a complaint without knowing their phone’s IMEI number. Here’s a complete guide.

📌 Can You Register a Complaint Without an IMEI Number?

Yes, you can register a complaint about your lost phone even if you don’t know your IMEI number. When you file a complaint, authorities usually ask for details such as:

• Mobile brand and model

• Phone color

• Last known location

• Mobile number used in the phone

• Date and time of loss

However, to block the device and prevent misuse, the IMEI number is mandatory. In India, the CEIR (Central Equipment Identity Register) portal requires the IMEI number to blacklist the phone. Without IMEI, the complaint will be general, but the phone may not be blocked.

📌 Ways to Find Your IMEI Number (Even if the Phone is Lost)

1. Original Mobile Box

   • Most phone manufacturers print the IMEI number on the retail box. Check the back or the sides of your phone’s box.

2. Purchase Invoice / Bill

   • If you bought your phone from an offline or online store, the IMEI number is usually printed on the invoice.

3. Google Account (for Android Users)

   • Visit Google Find My Device or check your Google Dashboard.

   • Go to Google Account Settings → “Devices” → Select your lost device → IMEI may be listed.

4. Apple ID (for iPhone Users)

   • Sign in to your Apple ID at appleid.apple.com.

   • Under “Devices,” select your lost iPhone → IMEI will be displayed.

5. Carrier / Service Provider Records

   • Contact your mobile service provider (Airtel, Jio, Vodafone-Idea, BSNL, etc.). They may have your IMEI registered when the phone was activated on their network.

6. Dial Code (if you still have the phone in the future)

   • Dial *#06# on the phone, and the IMEI number will be displayed instantly.

📌 How to File a Complaint for Lost Mobile

1. File an FIR or GD (General Diary) at the nearest police station.

   • Provide phone details (brand, model, color, last seen, mobile number).

   • Mention IMEI if you know it.

2. Block the Mobile via CEIR Portal (India Only)

   • Visit https://www.ceir.gov.in.

   • Submit request to block lost/stolen mobile.

   • Provide IMEI, ID proof, and complaint copy.

   • Once approved, the phone will be blacklisted across all Indian networks.

3. Inform Your Mobile Operator

   • Ask them to block the SIM card to prevent misuse.

4. Track Using Apps

   • Android: Google Find My Device

   • iPhone: Find My iPhone

📌 Conclusion

You can register a complaint without IMEI, but to block and trace the device, IMEI is essential. If you don’t have it right now, check your phone’s box, invoice, Google/Apple account, or contact your mobile service provider. The faster you act, the better your chances of preventing misuse.