Buying used Tmobile/AT&T phones - Tips?

[NoStateofMind]

I know that Verizon and Sprint have ESN's that can render a phone unusable for an unpaid account. I intend to purchase a Tmobile HTC One from craigslist. Is there anything like the above I need to be worried about? I know its GSM and should only take a switching of a SIM but wanted to be sure I don't get ripped off. Other tips are appreciated, thanks.

 

[paperwastage]

yes. at&t and t-mobile uses IMEI blacklists now (i think it's a unified blacklist shared amongst all carriers)

you could try calling the carriers and check if the IMEI is blacklisted... fewer chances of problems if the seller provides the original box with matching IMEI (a burglar might have stolen the box and phone, while a thief probably won't get the box)

 

[jlchoi]

If you can get the IMEI before you meet, you can check to see if it's blacklisted here.

 

[desura]

yes. at&t and t-mobile uses IMEI blacklists now (i think it's a unified blacklist shared amongst all carriers)

you could try calling the carriers and check if the IMEI is blacklisted... fewer chances of problems if the seller provides the original box with matching IMEI (a burglar might have stolen the box and phone, while a thief probably won't get the box)

How accurate are the online listings? I tried some of the online IMEI lookup websites...but they don't seem accurate.

 

[jpiniero]

One thing to consider is the new T-Mobile financing if it was bought that way. You're supposed to pay the balance if you cancel. So I would at least try to get some paperwork that he did so.

 

[Ricky Spanish]

I meet at a t-mobile store with the seller and explain I am buying and to register it to my account.