Google might soon show your phone’s IMEI on the lock screen, but should you be worried?

• Code found in the Google Personal Safety app suggests a new “Device info” option will allow users to view their IMEI number from the Emergency screen without unlocking the phone. • This move contradicts Google’s previous rejection of a similar user request, where the company cited security risks and the sensitive nature of PII as reasons to keep the IMEI hidden on locked devices. • While the feature could help law enforcement return lost or stolen devices without seizing or wiping data, it raises concerns that malicious actors could misuse the easily accessible identifier.

Every single phone, Android or otherwise, has an IMEI number. The IMEI number is a unique identifier that identifies a device on a mobile network, much like a personal identification number. It’s generally a good