Check if your new iPhone is real or fake. Fake iPhones look very similar to original ones. Many people unknowingly buy them during festive sales.
Scammers target users through third-party stores or local shops. Even repairs at local markets can swap your phone. Use these simple tips to stay alert and avoid getting cheated.
also read: How to Free Up iPhone Storage Without Deleting Apps in 2025
Check if Your New iPhone is Real or Fake: Look at Box and Accessories
Start by checking the box and its accessories. Apple always offers perfect packaging with every iPhone. A real box is strong and neatly printed. Text is sharp and images look clean and clear. If the box looks light or poorly printed, be careful.
Open the box and check the charging cable. Genuine iPhone accessories look premium and strong. The cable should have a smooth finish and proper labeling. Fake accessories may look dull or feel very light. They may also miss the “Designed by Apple” label.
Even the inside box setup should look well-arranged. Loose packaging or cheap plastic covers are not normal. Apple maintains high standards in even the smallest packaging parts. Compare it with your friend’s original box if possible.
Also, check the Apple logo on the box. It should be clear, shiny, and perfectly aligned. Fake boxes often get small details like logos wrong.
Use Serial Number and IMEI Tools
Every iPhone has a unique serial number and IMEI. These numbers help confirm if the device is real.
To check the serial number, go to Settings > General > About. Note the serial number written there. Visit Apple’s official Check Coverage page online. Enter the serial number there to verify. If the iPhone is real, it will show details like model, warranty, and support.
Now check the IMEI number of your device. Dial *#06# from your iPhone to see IMEI. Also, check the IMEI printed on the box and SIM tray. All three IMEI numbers must be exactly the same. If they are different, your phone may be fake.
If Apple’s website does not show your phone, it’s risky. Fake phones cannot be verified on Apple’s site. Also, beware of serial numbers that show expired warranty. These could be refurbished or duplicate products.
This method is very reliable and works instantly. Most people confirm their iPhones using this trick first.
Feel the Build and Test Software
Apple makes iPhones with strong materials and great finish. Hold your phone and feel its quality. A real iPhone feels smooth, heavy, and premium. There should be no loose parts or gaps anywhere. The screen should fit perfectly without any edge cracks.
Now look at the Apple logo on the back. It must be aligned at the centre and feel smooth. Tilt the phone and see if the logo reflects light properly. Fake iPhones often get the logo size or shine wrong.
Check the screen clarity under light. Apple screens are bright, sharp, and full of colour. If the display feels dull or pixelated, it may be fake. Fake iPhones use cheap screens that look weird from angles.
Next, check buttons like power, volume, and mute. These should work smoothly and feel tight. A loose or soft button is a red flag.
Now remove the SIM tray and look inside. The SIM slot must be neat and properly shaped. Fake phones often have uneven edges and cheap tray material.
You can also use a magnifying glass for small checks. Look at screws, labels, and camera cutouts. If they look off, the phone might be copied.
Now check if the software is the original iOS or not. Go to Settings > General > Software Update. Your phone should show the latest iOS version. If it doesn’t, it may be a fake device running Android.
Try using Siri by saying “Hey Siri” aloud. You can also press and hold the power button. Siri should start without delay. If Siri doesn’t work, it’s likely not a real iPhone.
Fake iPhones often run Android with an iOS-like theme. The icons may look similar but the system is fake. Some apps may not open, or look very different. This is another way to confirm a copied device.
Go to Apple Service Centre
Still unsure if your iPhone is real or not? Then visit an authorised Apple service centre. Only trained Apple staff can confirm your device’s originality. They will check both hardware and software details professionally.
Apple stores and service centres are located in most cities. Carry your bill and box with you when visiting. If the iPhone is fake, they will tell you directly.
Also, be careful while giving your phone for repair. Never visit local repair shops without checking their trust level. Some real parts with fake ones secretly. Others may even return a copied iPhone after repair.
Always go to authorised centres for any problem. Apple gives original parts and genuine service assurance. If your phone has been repaired before, double-check its details now.
This step is very important before selling or gifting the phone. Buyers today want proof that the iPhone is genuine.
Why You Must Be Very Careful
Buying a fake iPhone leads to many problems later. First, your phone may not get security updates. Fake devices are not supported by Apple officially. That means you cannot use features like iCloud or FaceTime.
Second, your personal data may not stay safe. Fake iPhones use unknown software that can leak data. Your contacts, photos, and even bank apps may get hacked.
Third, fake devices don’t last long. The battery, screen, and parts are of poor quality. They may stop working in a few months only. You will also not get any warranty or support.
Fourth, resale value of fake phones is zero. Nobody wants to buy an iPhone that is not real. You will lose all your money without getting help from Apple.
Also, your trust in Apple gets damaged unfairly. You may blame the brand when it’s actually a scam.
So be very careful during sale seasons. Never rush while buying a phone online or offline. Always buy from trusted sellers or Apple stores. Check the return policy before paying money. Avoid unknown deals that look too cheap or exciting.
The Bottom Corner
Check if your new iPhone is real or fake today. Don’t trust unknown sellers or shady repair shops. Use packaging checks, serial number tools, and iOS tests.
Also examine the device feel, camera, and SIM slot. Still unsure? Visit an Apple service centre now. Stay alert, protect your money, and enjoy your iPhone safely every day.
