Can a blocked phone be unblocked?

Usually by registering it with PTA and paying any applicable duty. Check the current requirements on PTA’s own tool; do not rely on a seller’s promise.

The phone works now — can it still get blocked later?

Yes. A phone running on a grace period or an unregistered status can be blocked once that period ends, so check the status rather than the fact that it has signal today.

Is the check really free?

Yes — the SMS to 8484 and the DIRBS website are free, and Mobilo’s history check is free too.

Is this IMEI blocked? Check before you buy

A blocked IMEI means the phone will lose service on Pakistani networks — an expensive problem to inherit. You can check it for free in two minutes, before any money changes hands.

How to check

Find the IMEI with *#06#, then ask PTA. By SMS, send the 15-digit IMEI to 8484. On the web, enter it at dirbs.pta.gov.pk and press Check. Both are free and answer in seconds.

Check every IMEI the phone has — on a dual-SIM handset, both.

What the answer means

Compliant means the phone is approved and in the clear. Valid means the IMEI is genuine but not PTA-registered, so it can be blocked until it is registered. Invalid means the IMEI is not recognised as genuine at all — walk away.

A phone that is already blocked stays blocked when you buy it; registration is tied to the device, not the seller.

What Mobilo adds

PTA tells you the registration status. Mobilo tells you the rest — whether the same IMEI has been reported stolen and how often it has been listed — each with its source. Run the number through both before you pay.

Common questions

Can a blocked phone be unblocked?: Usually by registering it with PTA and paying any applicable duty. Check the current requirements on PTA’s own tool; do not rely on a seller’s promise.
The phone works now — can it still get blocked later?: Yes. A phone running on a grace period or an unregistered status can be blocked once that period ends, so check the status rather than the fact that it has signal today.
Is the check really free?: Yes — the SMS to 8484 and the DIRBS website are free, and Mobilo’s history check is free too.