Apple Intelligence is now available on iPhone, iPad, and Mac!

Looks like no one’s replied in a while. To start the conversation again, simply ask a new question.

I’ve found my device has 2 IMEI numbers, what is the purpose and how would you use both?

My device has two IMEI numbers, what I’ve found online is that their will only be one listed if only one IMEI is in use, I’m not sure who activated the second one. How would I find out this information, what can be accessed with an IMEI, and how would you switch between the two?

iPhone SE, iOS 16

Posted on Nov 11, 2022 8:55 PM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Nov 19, 2022 5:38 AM

I did find another registered device and removed that a while ago, updating the password right after. To give a little reference, I first realized someone was using my Apple ID when I had sites under “sign in with apple” that I had never used. So I checked my settings and noticed my Apple ID had been changed to a new one and my original Apple ID was now listed as an alternate email. So I assume said individual did get my password, I guess I just thought they would need my device to login since I always receive a 6 digit code when I try to login, especially on an unrecognized device. I tried to change it back but got an alert stating I needed to wait 30 days. I did change the password after that also. I’ve had “hide my email”addresses added that I did not create, I’ve had my Apple ID listed as a forwarding address for email accounts that aren’t mine, pictures that aren’t mine in my data downloads, contacts added that aren’t mine, the list goes on. If I could keep all my pics and important documents without the hassle of transferring everything I would delete the the account and start over. Thank you for the advice I appreciate your time and help with this very frustrating situation.

5 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Nov 19, 2022 5:38 AM in response to Axel Foley

I did find another registered device and removed that a while ago, updating the password right after. To give a little reference, I first realized someone was using my Apple ID when I had sites under “sign in with apple” that I had never used. So I checked my settings and noticed my Apple ID had been changed to a new one and my original Apple ID was now listed as an alternate email. So I assume said individual did get my password, I guess I just thought they would need my device to login since I always receive a 6 digit code when I try to login, especially on an unrecognized device. I tried to change it back but got an alert stating I needed to wait 30 days. I did change the password after that also. I’ve had “hide my email”addresses added that I did not create, I’ve had my Apple ID listed as a forwarding address for email accounts that aren’t mine, pictures that aren’t mine in my data downloads, contacts added that aren’t mine, the list goes on. If I could keep all my pics and important documents without the hassle of transferring everything I would delete the the account and start over. Thank you for the advice I appreciate your time and help with this very frustrating situation.

Nov 11, 2022 9:32 PM in response to Asmith1409

Your device has two IMEI numbers because your device can utilize two SIMs (DUAL SIM = 2 Phone Numbers = 2 Lines). This is accomplished with one Phsyical SIM card and one eSIM (Software SIM). Both IMEI are listed on your iPhone even when only one is in use. This is because you can use the other to activate the eSIM (2nd Line) if you need it.

Review more informaiton on DUAL SIM here 👉 Use Dual SIM on an iPhone.


Axel F.

Nov 12, 2022 6:40 AM in response to Asmith1409

The only way to access your data is by sharing the Apple ID or someone knowing your Apple ID and Password. The first thing to do when you have a doubt that your Apple ID and Password have been compromised, is to change the Apple ID password. Open Settings ➡️ Apple ID (Your Name at Top) ➡️ Password & Security ➡️ Change Password. This will prevent someone else from using the compromised Apple ID and Password


The other thing to check is open Settings ➡️ Apple ID (Your Name at Top): Scroll down and see whether you see any strange or unrecognized device(s). If you do then remove the device. 


One other thing to check is to open Settings ➡️ Apple ID (Your Name at Top) ➡️ Name, Phone Numbers, Email: Here, if you see any strange phone number or an email address then remove it and then change the password of your Apple ID as shown above.


Axel F.


I’ve found my device has 2 IMEI numbers, what is the purpose and how would you use both?

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.