The best way to make sure a Sony phone is legitimate is to check the IMEI number. Run the number through an IMEI checker and make sure the response says “Sony.” You can also look for inconsistencies in the way the phone looks and operates, though counterfeit phone makers do a good job at making their products look real. Learn how to check the IMEI, as well as how to look for other clues that a Sony phone may not be original.
Checking the IMEI
Locate the 15-16 digit IMEI number.
One of the fastest and most reliable ways to find out if your phone is original is to run its IMEI number through an IMEI checker. Every phone has its own unique IMEI that ties back to the manufacturer. Here are three ways to find the IMEI:
- Open the phone dialer and dial *#06#. The IMEI will appear.
- On some Sony phones, you can remove the cover from the SIM card slot and then pull the tray outward to see the IMEI. On others, remove the back cover and battery to find the IMEI.
- If you haven’t yet purchased the phone, ask the seller to provide the IMEI.
Type the IMEI at http://www.imei.info.
Sony customers and support agents who share information on the Sony Mobile forums recommend using this tool to verify the authenticity of Sony phones.
Click the “Check” button.
Now you’ll see the manufacturer and model of the device. If it doesn’t say “Sony” and the correct model, your phone is not original.
Looking for Inconsistencies
Compare the color to available models.
You can use a site like http://www.gsmarena.com to view a list of all Sony phones and their details, including their colors. If your phone is navy blue, for example, and Sony didn’t make that model in navy blue, the phone isn’t original.
Check the Sony logo.
A real Sony phone will say “Sony” on the back. Run your finger across the logo to make sure it feels smooth. The logo shouldn’t be a sticker, and should not flake off.
Make sure everything’s in the right place.
While counterfeit phone makers usually do a good job of imitating the original product, you might notice inconsistencies. Find a friend with the same phone or visit a store that carries this model to check your phone against theirs. Here are a few things to check:
- Are the buttons are in the right place? Do they feel the same on both phones?
- Are the phones the same weight?
- Does your phone’s screen seem dull compared to the other phone? Colors not as vibrant?
- Are the Sony logos exactly the same?
Verify that it works as expected.
Most counterfeit phones are made with cheaper parts. If you bought an Xperia for its speed, screen, or camera quality, you’ll notice when those things don’t live up to your expectations.
- Take multiple photos and check their quality against what you find in online reviews.
- Open multiple apps at the same time and see if the phone can perform.
Avoiding Counterfeit Phones
Make sure the model number is legitimate.
Before you shell out money for a new Xperia X4200, make sure Sony actually released a model with that name (in this case, they didn’t). You should be able to find the exact model number of the phone for sale by searching for it at http://www.sonymobile.com/us//. Just click the magnifying glass at the top of the page to launch the search box.
- If you’ve found a model that exists but that Sony has not yet released, it’s a fake.
Check the price.
If the phone you want to buy goes for $799 and you’ve found it for $400, chances are it’s not legitimate. You won’t see drastically different pricing on the same phone model unless one is used, defective, or fake.
Buy from a trusted retailer.
Buy your Sony phone from Sony, your network provider, or a retailer you trust. If you’re buying a used phone from an individual online, verifying their identity can be tricky. The seller should have many positive reviews, and will be willing to give you the IMEI number for verification.
- See Sony’s list of authorized dealers at http://www.sony.com/retailers.
Tips
- Always read a website’s terms and conditions before placing an order.
- When purchasing a new phone, ask for a receipt. Having a receipt will help you get tech support from Sony while you’re still in your 1-year hardware warranty period.