Introduction

Buying a Second-Hand Phone can save you a lot of money, but it also comes with risks. Some sellers may hide defects, sell stolen phones, or provide fake accessories. To avoid getting scammed, you need to thoroughly inspect the phone before making a purchase.

This guide will walk you through how to properly check a second-hand smartphone, including Android and iPhones, to ensure you’re getting a fully functional and PTA-approved device.

How to Check an Android Smartphone Before Buying

When purchasing a used Android phone, follow these step-by-step checks:

1. Inspect the Body & Build Quality

✔ Check for any dents, scratches, or bends on the phone’s frame.
✔ Press lightly on different parts of the phone to see if it’s loose or has been opened.
✔ If the body flexes or makes a clicking sound, it may have been repaired before.

2. Check the Buttons & Touchscreen

✔ Test power, volume, and home buttons to ensure they are responsive.
✔ Open the dial pad and type *#0*# (for most Androids) to access hardware tests.
✔ Test the touchscreen by swiping across all areas to see if it responds properly.

3. Verify the Camera & Flashlight

✔ Open the camera app and test both front and back cameras.
✔ Record a short video to check if the camera lags or has blurry spots.
✔ Turn on the flashlight to ensure it works properly.

4. Test the Speaker, Microphone & Headphone Jack

✔ Play a song or video to check the speaker quality.
✔ Make a test call and check if the other person can hear you clearly.
✔ Insert headphones (if applicable) to confirm audio output.

5. Check SIM Card, Network & PTA Approval

✔ Insert a SIM card and check if signals appear properly.
✔ Dial *#06# to get the IMEI number, then:

• Visit https://dirbs.pta.gov.pk/
• Enter the IMEI number to check if the phone is PTA-approved.
  ✔ If the phone is not PTA-approved, you’ll need to pay tax before using mobile networks in Pakistan.

6. Test Charging & Battery Health

✔ Plug in the charger and see if the phone charges properly.
✔ Check if the phone heats up abnormally while charging.
✔ Use the AccuBattery App to test the battery health (install from Play Store).

How to Check an iPhone Before Buying

If you’re buying a used iPhone, follow these checks to avoid a faulty or fake device:

1. Verify the iPhone’s Body & Display

✔ Inspect the edges for any signs of opening or repairs.
✔ Check the screen for black spots or touch issues.
✔ Go to Settings > Display & Brightness and adjust the brightness to see if the display works fine.

2. Check iCloud & Activation Lock

✔ Go to Settings > Apple ID and check if the previous owner is still logged in.
✔ If it asks for an Apple ID login, DO NOT BUY the phone – it may be stolen.
✔ Visit https://checkcoverage.apple.com/ and enter the serial number to verify if the iPhone is authentic.

3. Test Camera & Face ID

✔ Open the camera app and check both the front and rear cameras.
✔ Record a video with sound to verify if the microphone works.
✔ If the iPhone has Face ID, test if it recognizes your face properly.

4. Check Battery Health & Performance

✔ Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health and ensure it’s above 80%.
✔ If battery health is below 75%, the phone may require a battery replacement soon.

5. Verify PTA Approval & Network Signals

✔ Dial *#06# and check the IMEI number.
✔ Go to https://dirbs.pta.gov.pk/ and enter the IMEI to check the PTA approval status.
✔ Insert a SIM card and make a test call to ensure the network works.

Bluetooth & WiFi Work on the Same IC – Check This Before Buying

Many phones have a single IC (chip) that controls both Bluetooth and WiFi. If either Bluetooth or WiFi isn’t working, it could indicate a damaged IC, leading to connectivity issues.

How to Check:

Turn on WiFi and try connecting to a network.
Enable Bluetooth and try pairing a device.
If one doesn’t work, the IC may be faulty—avoid buying the phone!

Why Are People Selling Their Phones? Is It Faulty?

Before purchasing a used phone, always ask the seller why they are selling it.

Common Reasons People Sell Phones:
✔ They need money – This is common and usually safe.
✔ Upgrading to a new model – Also a good sign.
❌ The phone has issues – Battery problems, motherboard issues, or screen replacement.
❌ Stolen or blacklisted – Always check the IMEI number on PTA’s website.

Tip: If a deal seems too cheap, double-check everything carefully!

Always Take a Backup Warranty When Buying a Used Phone

Even though used phones don’t come with a brand-new warranty, some sellers provide a backup warranty for a few days.

Why is Backup Warranty Important?

Gives peace of mind—if anything goes wrong, you can return the phone.
Protects against hidden defects like overheating, battery drainage, or software issues.

✔ Best practice: Buy from a seller who offers at least a 1-week checking warranty.

Always Purchase a Phone with Full Accessories (Box, Charger, etc.)

Many sellers remove accessories to sell them separately, forcing you to buy a fake charger.

Must-Have Accessories:

Original box – This ensures the IMEI matches the phone.
Original charger & cable – Avoid fake chargers that damage the battery.
Headphones (if included in original packaging).

Tip: Check the charger’s voltage and ampere rating to ensure it’s original.

How to Safely Buy a Used iPhone?

iPhones are expensive, so buying a used one requires extra caution.

Checklist for Used iPhones:

✔ Check iCloud Status – Go to Settings > Apple ID – If iCloud is locked, DO NOT BUY.
✔ Verify Serial Number – Enter it on https://checkcoverage.apple.com/.
✔ Check Battery Health – If below 80%, the phone may need a battery replacement.
✔ Face ID / Touch ID – Ensure biometric features work properly.

Avoid activation-locked iPhones! These are often stolen or resold illegally.

Check the Screws – Has the Phone Been Opened?

A phone that has been repaired or opened may have hidden issues.

How to Check:

Look at the bottom screws near the charging port.
If the screws look scratched or loose, the phone has been opened or repaired.
Avoid buying phones that have been tampered with, as they might have replaced parts or internal damage.

Check Online Warranty Before Buying a Used Phone

Before finalizing your purchase, check if the phone still has a valid warranty.

How to Check Warranty:

For iPhones: Go to https://checkcoverage.apple.com/ and enter the serial number.
For Android (Samsung, Huawei, etc.): Visit the official brand website and enter the IMEI or serial number.

Why This Is Important?
✔ Confirms if the phone is genuine.
✔ Ensures remaining warranty coverage (if applicable).
✔ Helps detect fake or refurbished models.

Final Tips to Avoid Scams When Buying a Used Phone

Buy from Trusted Sellers – Avoid unknown online marketplaces without reviews.
Meet in a Safe Place – Always check phones in a public place.
Test Everything Before Payment – Don’t pay before verifying the phone’s full functionality.
Compare Prices – If the price is too low, it’s suspicious.
Ask for the Original Box & Accessories – Ensures the phone isn’t stolen or fake.

By following these steps, you can confidently buy a second-hand smartphone without getting scammed!

Have you ever bought a used phone? Share your experience in the comments!

FAQs – How to Check a Used Smartphone Before Buying

1. How do I check if a used phone is PTA-approved?
Dial *#06# to get the IMEI number, then visit https://dirbs.pta.gov.pk/ to check PTA approval status.

2. What should I check first when buying a second-hand phone?
Inspect the body, screen, battery health, Face ID/Touch ID, camera, speakers, and network signals before purchasing.

3. How do I know if a used iPhone is original or fake?
Check the serial number on https://checkcoverage.apple.com/ to verify authenticity.

4. Why is the seller selling the phone?
Some sell due to upgrade or need for money, while others hide faulty issues. Always ask and inspect carefully before buying.

5. Should I buy a used phone without a box or charger?
No! Always try to buy a phone with its original box, charger, and accessories to avoid stolen or fake devices.