How to sell or buy a used phone safely

Most problems with used phone deals follow a few common patterns. These steps avoid nearly all of them.

Payment

• Never pay a "booking amount" or advance for a phone you haven't held.
• You never need to scan a QR code or enter a UPI PIN to receive money. Anyone asking you to is trying to take money from you.
• Check that the payment has actually arrived in your bank app before handing over the phone. Screenshots can be faked.

Meeting

• Meet in a busy public place in daylight. A mobile shop is ideal, since they can test the phone.
• Bring a friend if you can, and tell someone where you're going.

If you're buying

• Dial *#06# and check the IMEI matches the box and bill.
• Make sure the phone is signed out of the seller's Apple ID or Google account. A locked phone can't be used.
• Test the cameras, speakers, microphone, charging, buttons and SIM before you pay.
• Ask for a simple handwritten sale note with both names, the IMEI, the price and the date.

If you're selling

• Back up your data, sign out of every account, then erase the phone.
• Remove your SIM and memory card.
• Keep a copy of the sale note.