1. Ask for the IMEI or serial number first
Every phone has an IMEI number and every phone and laptop has a serial number. Ask the seller for them before payment. A trustworthy seller will share them. GoBuy247 is happy to provide them so you can check for yourself.
2. Check an iPhone
- Enter the serial number at Apple's official coverage page, checkcoverage.apple.com. It should show the correct model and its warranty status.
- On the phone, open Settings → General → About. The model, serial number and IMEI should match the box and the coverage page.
- Open Settings → Battery → Battery Health. A new iPhone should show a maximum capacity at or very close to 100%.
- Check Settings → General → About → Parts and Service History on supported models, which shows if parts have been replaced.
3. Check a Samsung phone
- Dial *#06# to display the IMEI. It should match the number on the box and in Settings → About phone.
- Check that Settings → About phone shows the correct model number for the phone you are buying.
- Open the Samsung Members app and run the diagnostics to test the screen, cameras, battery and sensors.
4. Check a laptop
- Enter the serial number on the manufacturer's support website (Dell, HP, Apple and others) to see the model and warranty status.
- Compare the processor, RAM and storage shown in the system settings with what you were quoted.
- On Windows, open Settings → System → About. On a Mac, choose Apple menu → About This Mac.
5. Inspect the box and the device
- For a new device, ask whether it is sealed, and check that the seal and packaging are intact.
- Look for sharp, consistent printing, and serial numbers that match on the box and the device.
- Check that the screen, buttons, cameras, speakers and charging port all work as expected.
Warning signs
- A seller who refuses to share the IMEI or serial number.
- Serial numbers that do not match between the box, the settings and the official checker.
- A price far below the usual market price for that model.
- Software that looks unusual, missing official app stores, or settings that show a different model.
Ask GoBuy247 for the IMEI or serial number of any device before paying, and confirm whether it is new and sealed. Call or WhatsApp 0902 355 3805.
Frequently asked questions
How can I check if an iPhone is original?
Enter its serial number at checkcoverage.apple.com and confirm that the model, serial number and IMEI in Settings → General → About match the box.
How do I find a phone's IMEI number?
Dial *#06# on the phone. The IMEI is also printed on the box and shown in the phone's settings.
How do I check a laptop's warranty?
Enter the serial number on the manufacturer's support website, such as Dell, HP or Apple, to see the model and warranty status.
Will GoBuy247 share the IMEI or serial number before I pay?
Yes. Ask the team on WhatsApp or 0902 355 3805 for the IMEI or serial number so you can check it yourself before paying.