Quick takeaways
- Confirm the exact model, storage and identifying information before payment.
- Test the display, cameras, charging, speakers, microphones, buttons and network functions.
- Check that the phone is not still tied to another person's account or activation lock.
- Do not treat a clean exterior as proof that the internal condition is equally good.
1. Confirm the phone's identity
Start by confirming the exact brand, model, storage capacity, colour and condition being offered. Compare the phone's displayed device information with the seller's description and receipt where available.
Check the IMEI or serial number through the manufacturer's official verification channel when one is available. A valid identifier does not prove that every component is original, but it helps confirm that the device identity matches what you were told.
