This post will show you how to check if an iPhone is original in Nigeria, how to verify the iPhone IMEI, ways to avoid iPhone scams, and how to spot a fake iPhone.
Buying an iPhone in Nigeria ignorantly can be very risky because the market is full of fake and refurbished iPhones being sold as brand-new devices.
Many ignorant buyers fall victim to iPhone scams, losing their hard-earned money to counterfeit or stolen devices everytime, don’t be one of them.
Why You Need to Verify Your iPhone in Nigeria
Before purchasing an iPhone in Nigeria, it’s very important to confirm its authenticity because:
- Fake iPhones flood the Nigerian market everyday.
- Some sellers repackage refurbished or stolen iPhones as new ones to sell.
- Without proper checks, you may buy a locked, blacklisted, or iCloud-locked iPhone without knowing.
To avoid these issues, you need to follow these verification methods below.
Ways to Check Original iPhone in Nigeria
1. Check the iPhone IMEI Number
Every genuine iPhone has a unique IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number. Here’s how you can verify it:
How to Find iPhone IMEI:
- Dial *#06# on the iPhone (it will display the IMEI).
- Go to Settings > General > About (scroll down to see IMEI).
- Check the original iPhone box (IMEI is printed on it).
- Look at the SIM tray (older iPhone models have IMEI engraved).
How to Verify iPhone IMEI in Nigeria:
- Use Apple’s official IMEI checker: https://checkcoverage.apple.com
- Visit third-party IMEI checkers like IMEI.info or Swappa.
What to Look For:
- Activation Date – Matches purchase date.
- Warranty Status – Confirms if Apple still covers it.
- Model & Serial Number – Must match the device.
Red Flags:
- If the IMEI shows “This device cannot be activated”, it’s blacklisted.
- If the IMEI doesn’t match the iPhone’s details, it’s fake.
2. Inspect the Physical Build Quality
Fake iPhones often have poor build quality of you look close enough. You should try and Check for:
• Weight & Material – Original iPhones have premium aluminum/glass.
• Button Placement – Fake iPhones may have misaligned buttons.
• Screen Quality – Original iPhones have crisp OLED/LCD displays.
Test:
- Press the Home button (if it’s an older model) – should feel solid.
- Check camera lens clarity – fake iPhones have blurry cameras.
3. Verify iOS & Software Features
Fake iPhones often run Android OS disguised as iOS.
How to Check:
• Open App Store – Fake iPhones may have a fake App Store.
• Check Siri – Original iPhones have smooth Siri responses.
• Go to Settings > General > About – Verify model name (e.g., iPhone 13).
Warning: If the iPhone has pre-installed apps like Facebook or WhatsApp, it’s likely fake.
4. Check iPhone Serial Number on Apple’s Website
Visit Apple’s Check Coverage Page and enter the serial number (found in Settings > General > About).
What to Confirm:
• Valid Purchase Date – If it Matches seller’s claim.
• Active Warranty – Ensures authenticity.
5. Avoid iCloud-Locked iPhones
An iCloud-locked iPhone is useless if the previous owner didn’t remove their account.
How to Check:
- Go to Settings > [Your Name].
- If there’s an iCloud account logged in, ask the seller to remove it before buying.
Never buy an iCloud-locked iPhone – It can be blocked remotely!
6. Buy from Reputable Sellers
To avoid iPhone scams in Nigeria, you should always try to purchase your phone from:
• Apple Authorized Resellers (e.g., Slot, Pointek, Fasmicro).
• Trusted Online Stores (Jumia, Konga – but verify seller ratings).
• Physical Stores with Warranty – Avoid roadside dealers.
Common iPhone Scams in Nigeria & How to Avoid Them
- Refurbished iPhones being Sold as New – Try to Always check the IMEI to avoid this situation.
- Fake iPhones (Android clones) – You should always Verify iOS features before buying an iPhone.
- Stolen iPhones (Blacklisted IMEI) – Always try to Use IMEI checker it’s very important.
- iCloud-Locked Devices –Always try and Ensure that Find My iPhone feature is off.
Remember to Always Verify Before Buying!
To avoid iPhone scams in Nigeria, you should always try to:
• Check IMEI & serial number.
• Inspect physical build quality.
• Buy from trusted sellers.
• Avoid iCloud-locked devices.
If you follow this guide, you’ll easily spot fake iPhones and ensure you get a genuine Apple device in Nigeria.
15 Most Asked Questions About Checking Original iPhone in Nigeria
1. How do I know if my iPhone is original?
Check IMEI, verify serial number on Apple’s website, and inspect build quality.
2. Can a fake iPhone have an IMEI number?
Yes, but it won’t match Apple’s database.
3. How do I check my iPhone IMEI in Nigeria?
Dial *#06# or go to Settings > General > About.
4. What if my iPhone IMEI is not found on Apple’s website?
It’s likely fake or stolen.
5. How can I avoid buying a fake iPhone in Nigeria?
Buy from trusted sellers, verify IMEI, and check warranty status.
6. What’s the difference between original and refurbished iPhones?
Refurbished iPhones are repaired used phones, while original ones are brand new.
7. How do I check if my iPhone is iCloud locked?
Go to Settings > [Your Name]. If an iCloud account is active, it’s locked.
8. Can I unlock an iCloud-locked iPhone?
No, unless you contact the original owner.
9. Is Jumia or Konga safe to buy iPhones in Nigeria?
Yes, but only if the seller is highly rated and verified.
10. What does “No SIM restrictions” mean on iPhone?
It means the iPhone is unlocked and works with any Nigerian SIM.
11. How do I know if my iPhone is stolen?
Check IMEI on IMEI.info – if blacklisted, it’s stolen.
12. Why is my iPhone showing “Invalid SIM” in Nigeria?
It may be network-locked (might only work with a specific carrier).
13. How do I verify iPhone battery health?
Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health.
14. Can fake iPhones update iOS?
No, fake iPhones run Android and can’t install iOS updates.
15. Where is the safest place to buy an iPhone in Nigeria?
Apple-authorized stores like Slot, Pointek, or official Apple resellers.
