Used Phone Buying Scams in Bangladesh – How to Avoid Being Cheated
Used Phone Buying Scams in Bangladesh – How to Avoid Being Cheated
Buying a used phone in Bangladesh can save you money, but it also comes with risks. Scammers are constantly inventing new ways to cheat buyers. From fake IMEI numbers to iCloud-locked devices, there are many traps to avoid. This guide covers the most common used phone buying scams in Bangladesh and how to protect yourself.
Most Common Used Phone Scams
1. Fake IMEI or Stolen Phone
Scammers sell phones with fake or cloned IMEI numbers, or phones that have been reported stolen .
How to Avoid: Dial *#06# and verify the IMEI with BTRC's NEIR system .
2. iCloud Lock (iPhone)
The phone is locked to the seller's iCloud account and cannot be activated without the password .
How to Avoid: Check "Find My iPhone" is turned off before buying.
3. FRP Lock (Android)
The phone is locked to the seller's Google account and cannot be used .
How to Avoid: Ensure the Google account is signed out before buying.
4. Hidden Water Damage
Scammers hide water damage by cleaning the phone externally .
How to Avoid: Check the water damage indicator (LDI) inside the SIM tray.
5. Clone/Copy Phones
Fake phones that look like premium brands but have poor hardware .
How to Avoid: Check the build quality, software, and performance.
6. Non-Original Screen
Phones with cheap aftermarket screens that are less responsive .
How to Avoid: Check for screen quality, color accuracy, and responsiveness.
7. Bait and Switch
Seller shows a good phone but gives you a different (defective) one .
How to Avoid: Check the phone thoroughly before handing over money.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Price too good to be true: Often means hidden issues .
- Rushing you: Not allowing time to test.
- No warranty: Seller is not confident .
- No invoice: Can't verify authenticity.
- Meeting in strange locations: Safety risk.
- Bad grammar/spelling: Scammers often have poor language.
How to Protect Yourself
- Check IMEI: Dial *#06# and verify with BTRC
- Test everything: Don't rush, test all features
- Ask for warranty: 3-7 days is reasonable
- Check water damage: Look for LDI indicators
- Get original invoice: Helps verify authenticity
- Meet in public: Shopping malls, cafes
- Bring a friend: Safety in numbers
- Trust your gut: If it feels wrong, walk away
What to Do If You've Been Scammed
- Contact the seller immediately
- Document everything (screenshots, messages)
- Report to the police
- Report to the platform
- Share your experience to warn others
Where to Buy Used Phones Safely
mobile.com.bd offers a trusted marketplace for used phones in Bangladesh with IMEI verification, seller ratings, and secure transactions.
Shop Safely for Used Phones
Browse the complete used phone marketplace at mobile.com.bd and buy with confidence.
