The market for second-hand smartphones is booming. From flagship devices at half the price to rare limited editions you can’t find in stores anymore, buying pre-owned can save you money while reducing e-waste. However, along with the benefits come certain risks — and one of the smartest ways to protect yourself is by performing an IMEI Check before making a purchase. What Is the IMEI and Why Does It Matter? The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique number assigned to every mobile phone. Think of it as a digital fingerprint for your device — no two phones have the same IMEI. Mobile carriers, law enforcement agencies, and phone…