Blocked (blacklisted) handset problem

worcester4x4

My partner bought a handset privately and it worked fine for a month. Then it wouldn't make or receive calls. It turns out it's been blacklisted on UK networks.

We've run a report and also reported it to the police.

It turns out that it's not stolen, nor is it the subject of an insurance claim.

I'm assuming then that the previous owner is in default with their contract and hence it's been blocked by whichever network they're in default with.

My question is is there any way to get the block lifted? Anyone had experience of this before?

DUTR

Contact the seller?

worcester4x4

I've done that, no joy from her, she's trying to wash her hands of the problem.

DUTR

worcester4x4 wrote: »

I've done that, no joy from her, she's trying to wash her hands of the problem.

Seems odd that you have just accepted that response. Short answer is you have wasted your money on the handset.

worcester4x4

I have not just accepted the situation, I am pursuing her and have reached the point where I'm threatening legal action for recovery of my money and costs. This all takes time, money and inconvenience whereas the simple solution, if it's possible, is to get the handset unblacklisted. Hence my question.

DUTR

worcester4x4 wrote: »

I have not just accepted the situation, I am pursuing her and have reached the point where I'm threatening legal action for recovery of my money and costs. This all takes time, money and inconvenience whereas the simple solution, if it's possible, is to get the handset unblacklisted. Hence my question.

Indeed, but you won't get it unlisted for use in the UK, otherwise their would be a rife market for dodgy handsets, all you can do is learn from the experience.

Buzby

The Checkmend service will tell you why the IMEI is blocked, and the seller
probably knows full well why the phone is blocked - the usual reason is they have reported it lost or stolen and received a replacement. Invariably, unless you can reverse your payment method (like PayPal or a credit card) you will be pretty much on your own as this will be seen as a civil dispute and whilst persistence may pay off, if they're short of money - a refund is rarely forthcoming.

https://www.checkmend.com/uk/public/check_start

NFH

Buzby wrote: »

The Checkmend service will tell you why the IMEI is blocked, and the seller
probably knows full well why the phone is blocked - the usual reason is they have reported it lost or stolen and received a replacement. Invariably, unless you can reverse your payment method (like PayPal or a credit card) you will be pretty much on your own as this will be seen as a civil dispute

If the seller did as you suggest, then it would be an offence under Section 2 of the Fraud Act 2006 and would therefore be a criminal and not a civil matter.

teffers

I personally have never heard of a network blocking a handset when an account is in default. When you take out a new contract with a service provider the handset is separate from the account, you own the phone.

simax

Buzby wrote: »

the seller probably knows full well why the phone is blocked - the usual reason is they have reported it lost or stolen and received a replacement.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

This...............

Guys_Dad

DUTR wrote: »

Indeed, but you won't get it unlisted for use in the UK, otherwise their would be a rife market for dodgy handsets, all you can do is learn from the experience.

Although I usually agree with your posts, this time I think the OP has gained some useful information and help - I certainly have. Also, if the seller has reported it stolen or lost, then there is definitely criminal action - twice over.

The reference to checkmend could prove invaluable and might give OP the opportunity to say "Unless you refund my money, it's the network who will be informed and they will block your current handset and the police will be informed"