Losing a mobile device can be a frustrating and stressful experience, especially if it’s a smartphone or tablet that contains important personal or business information. One way to track a lost or stolen device is by using its IMEI number. IMEI stands for International Mobile Equipment Identity, and it’s a unique 15-digit number that is assigned to every mobile device. In this article, we will explain what an IMEI number is, why Google Earth is a useful tool for tracking it, and how to track an IMEI number using Google Earth. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of how to locate a lost or stolen device using its IMEI number and Google Earth.
What is an IMEI Number
An IMEI number is a unique 15-digit number that is assigned to every mobile device, including smartphones and tablets. It stands for International Mobile Equipment Identity and is used to identify a specific device. The IMEI number is essential for activating a device on a mobile network and can also be used to track the device in case it is lost or stolen.
Why Use Google Earth to Track an IMEI Number
Google Earth is a popular mapping and satellite imaging application that can be used to track an IMEI number. It allows users to view the location of a device on a map in real-time, providing an accurate and detailed location of the device. Using Google Earth to track an IMEI number is also a useful tool for law enforcement agencies to track and recover stolen devices.
How to Track an IMEI Number using Google Earth
Tracking an IMEI number using Google Earth is a relatively simple process. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Obtain the IMEI number of the device that you wish to track. This can usually be found on the device itself or in the settings menu.
Step 2: Go to the Google Earth website and download and install the application on your computer.
Step 3: Open the Google Earth application and click on the “Tools” menu. Select “GPS” from the drop-down menu and enter the IMEI number of the device that you wish to track.
Step 4: The device’s location will be displayed on the map in real-time. You can zoom in and out of the map to view the location in more detail.
Step 5: To stop tracking the device, simply click on the “Stop” button in the GPS menu.
It’s important to note that tracking an IMEI number using Google Earth is only possible if the device is turned on and connected to a mobile network. If the device is turned off or out of range, the location will not be displayed on the map.
Conclusion
Tracking an IMEI number using Google Earth is a useful tool for recovering a lost or stolen device. It’s important to remember that tracking an IMEI number without the consent of the device’s owner may be illegal, and it’s always recommended to consult with a legal professional before taking any action. Additionally, it’s important to note that tracking is only possible if the device is turned on and connected to a mobile network.