If you have just bought an iPhone, one of Apple’s most important products, and you are not completely sure of its provenance, there is a definite trick that will help you know if your phone is really new or if, on the contrary, you have been the victim of a scam. The most important thing is to make a safe purchase, but here are some tricks, including model number and device verification, to find the starting point of the scam.
Technology specialists warn that some used or refurbished devices are sold as if they were new, but there is a very simple way to check their real condition directly from the cell phone settings, without having to open it.
How to tell if your iPhone is new, refurbished or replacement: follow all steps
The key is the model number of your device. To consult it, you must follow these steps. In a first instance, you must open the Settings, then attend to the General section. So, you must then access the Device Information section and finally stop to locate the Model Number field. Once there, pay attention to the first letter of the number.
The key is to pay attention to the model numbers:
In the first instance, the “M” indicates that it is a new iPhone, purchased directly from Apple or an authorized reseller. Secondly, the “F” indicates that the phone is refurbished by Apple or a certified supplier. Along the same lines, the “N” corresponds to a replacement device, delivered by Apple to replace a damaged one. Finally, the “P”: in some cases, it refers to a customized model.
This small detail, which many people overlook, can make the difference between a safe purchase and a covert scam. This step is key to avoid any type of fraud, as well as to determine the real value and to know first-hand its origin. So, prior to your purchase, don’t hesitate to check the model number and compare it with the lettering and information above.
Consejos para evitar estafas al comprar un iPhone
In addition to the model number trick, keep in mind the following recommendations:
- Ask for the original purchase invoice, which in many occasions we can leave in second place, but in order to solve any problem you should attend to have the invoice.
- Avoid unofficial platforms or sellers without reviews. Nowadays you can buy an iPhone on many platforms and you should emphasize only buy them on platforms where there are real reviews and reliability in their payments.
- Check the IMEI of the device on the official Apple website to verify its warranty status.
- Be wary of sellers who do not allow you to test the device before paying.
What accessory and what physical condition of the device you are interested in to find out if you have been scammed.
In addition, it is critical to examine the physical condition of the device. A new iPhone should be free of scratches, marks or dings. Visible imperfections in the casing, screen or sides may indicate previous use. It is also worth paying attention to the included accessories: charger, cable and headphones must be original and match the model.
The presence of generic products or products in poor condition may suggest that it is not a new unit. To avoid surprises, specialists advise purchasing from official stores or Apple-certified resellers. In addition, always ask for the invoice is a way to protect your rights as a buyer.
Have all the information before making the purchase of the new device
iPhones are highly valued devices, but they also come with a high price tag. This makes them an attractive target for fraudsters who try to resell used or refurbished devices as if they were new. As warned by several specialists in the technology sector, some resellers take advantage of the lack of information from users to camouflage the condition of the phone.