I know my mobile number!... But what is this IMEI Number??

Since terrorist activities are increasing day by day govt. and telecom companies are forcing people to check weather they have proper IMEI number or not.
Many people ask me that we know our mobile number but what is this IMEI number?? So, this post helps you to know it.

IMEI stands for International Mobile Equipment Identity. It's a number which is usually unique and use to identify GSM, WCDMA, iDEN and as well as some satellite phones.

The IMEI number is used by the GSM network to identify valid devices and therefore can be used for stopping a stolen phone from accessing the network in that country. For example, if a mobile phone is stolen, the owner can call his or her network provider and instruct them to "ban" the phone using its IMEI number. This renders the phone useless in that country, whether or not the phone's SIM is changed. However, the phone can be used abroad.
Unlike the Electronic Serial Number or MEID of CDMA and other wireless networks, the IMEI is only used for identifying the device, and has no permanent or semi-permanent relation to the subscriber. Instead, the subscriber is identified by transmission of an IMSI number, which is stored on a SIM card that can (in theory) be transferred to any handset. However, many network and security features are enabled by knowing the current device being used by a subscriber.

The Structure of an IMEI Number:

IMEI numbers either come in a 17 digit or 15 digit sequences of numbers. The IMEI format currently utilized is AA-BBBBBB-CCCCCC-D:

• AA: These two digits are for the Reporting Body Identifier, indicating the GSMA approved group that allocated the TAC (Type Allocation Code).
• BBBBBB: The remainder of the TAC
• CCCCCC: Serial sequence of the Model
• D: Luhn check digit of the entire model or 0 (This is an algorithm that validates the ID number) 

Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR):

If a mobile handset is lost or stolen, the owner of the device can contact the CEIR (Central Equipment Identity Register) which will blacklist the device in all currently operating switches. This makes the lost or stolen handset unusable. The action of blacklisting stolen mobile handsets is seen as a deterrent to crime. It is possible, however, to change an IMEI with special tools and there are certain mobile networks that do not automatically blacklist handsets registered with the CEIR. Current statistics state that approximately ten percent of IMEI's in use today are not unique or have been reprogrammed (hacked).

How to find my IMEI Number?:

It is usually found printed inside the battery compartment of the phone. It can also be displayed on the screen of the phone by entering *#06# into the keypad on most phones.

For more info CLICK HERE!