We’ve shared with you some tips on How to Buy a Used Phone (Not a Stolen One), giving you guidance as a buyer on how to avoid ending up with a device that was unlawfully obtained. If you end up with a stolen device, it may lock up on you or police may someday come knocking to get it back – and who wants to be in that situation?
As a seller, you also want to protect yourself when selling your old phone. Selling your old phone can put your personal or business data at risk, if it’s not properly wiped, and can put your personal safety at risk during the sales process.
How to Prepare Your Phone for Resale
Your device is peppered with valuable information, from passwords to personal information and more. It’s important to make sure your device is cleaned up by following these tips:
- Back up your phone (to your computer and the Cloud) so that you can sync the backup with your new phone
- Remove the SIM card and additional memory cards from the phone. If your phone doesn’t have a SIM card, there may be extra steps. For example, some iPhone users should disable iMessage and call their carrier directly to deactivate the phone
- Perform a ‘factory reset’ on your phone to delete all of its data. Instructions for this can be found in your manual or on the manufacturers website. Here are links for iOS (iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch) and Android. Be sure you erase all content and settings, not just reset them.
- Unregister the device from any accounts (like with Apple)
- Clean your device (it is only nice, after all)
- Assemble any packaging or accessories you’re selling with your phone (charger, ear buds, etc). Some buyers may request proof of purchase.
How to Stay Safe While Selling Your Phone
Remember that your phone is a hot commodity and that there are criminals who may present themselves as buyers in order to steal it. These thieves may resort to violence to make off with your device. Here are some safety tips to make criminals think twice about targeting you during the sale of your phone:
- Don’t list your personal information or home address in any classified listing
- Consider arranging pick-up at a neutral and very public location like the inside of a mall, not your home (the higher value the item, the more important a neutral pick-up is)
- Arrive early to observe the buyer. If you are concerned about the behavior of the buyer, leave immediately
- Tell a friend or family member where you are going for the sale; whenever possible, take a second person with you to the meeting
- Avoid appointments late at night (fewer witnesses)
- Keep valuables and personal information out of sight
- Never meet in parking lots, where buyers can make a quick getaway
If you are selling your old phone to get a new phone, don’t forget to read How to Set Up and Secure Your New Phone.
Absolute LoJack Customers: If you have an active Absolute LoJack license, don’t forget to transfer your license to your new phone. See details in our Customer Center.