How to Check If Your Phone is Carrier Locked Before Buying

Nothing is more frustrating than buying a second-hand smartphone and discovering it won't work with your carrier. Here are four quick ways to check before you hand over your money.

Method 1 — Check the Settings (iPhone)

Go to Settings → General → About and scroll to Carrier Lock. If it says "No SIM restrictions", the phone is unlocked. Any other message means it's locked.

Method 2 — Check the Settings (Android)

On Samsung devices, go to Settings → Connections → Mobile networks → Network operators and tap Search networks. If only one carrier appears, the phone is likely locked to it. On stock Android, look under Settings → About phone → SIM status.

Method 3 — Insert a different SIM

The simplest test: insert a SIM from a different carrier. If you see a "SIM not supported" or "Enter unlock code" message, the phone is locked.

Method 4 — Use an IMEI checker

Every phone has a unique IMEI. Dial *#06# to find it, then use Servidge's IMEI Status Check service to get a full report including carrier lock status, blacklist status, and warranty information — all for under $2.

What to do if it's locked

A carrier lock doesn't have to be a deal-breaker. Servidge can unlock most phones remotely. Check our services page for supported models and current pricing.