TECH

Planning to sell your used phone? These mistakes could cost you both the device and the money

The market for used phones is booming, turning devices long forgotten in drawers into a potential source of income. However, the rush to list, negotiate, and ship the device often masks significant risks. A simple error regarding account removal, payment, or packaging can lead to financial loss, complaints, and even the permanent loss of the device.

Wiping the device's content before the sale is essential, but the procedure must be done correctly. Resetting the phone without first removing linked accounts can leave the device locked and unusable for the buyer.

On an iPhone, the recommended path is to go to Settings, tap General, tap Transfer or Reset iPhone, and select Erase All Content and Settings. During the process, the system may ask for your Apple Account password. This step signs you out and disables Activation Lock.

If the device is reset via recovery mode or a computer before the account is removed, it may continue to require the previous owner's credentials. In practice, the buyer ends up with a device they cannot set up.

Android phones have a similar safeguard known as Factory Reset Protection. Before erasing data, remove your Google account under Settings > Accounts. Then, look for the system reset options and select the option to completely erase data.

There is also no need to install apps that promise to wipe memory multiple times using supposedly military-grade methods. Modern phones use encryption; when reset correctly, they delete the key that allows access to stored information.

One common mistake is overlooking the phone's SIM tray. The physical SIM card and microSD card might remain inside the device without the seller realizing it.

The risk associated with eSIMs is even less obvious. During the reset process, some devices ask if the user wants to keep the installed data plan. If this option is confirmed by mistake, the phone line may remain associated with the sold device. Before packing the phone, delete the eSIM in the mobile network settings or transfer the plan to the new device. It is also worth confirming with your carrier that the line is active on the correct device.

The microSD card requires special attention, as it may contain photos, documents, backups, and app files. Remove the card even if you intend to include it in the sale; in that case, format it separately and clearly state this in the listing.

Too many photos can expose information that should remain private...A good listing needs to show the phone's actual condition, but that doesn't mean publishing every visible detail.

The IMEI and serial number should not appear in public images. This information can be used for fraudulent warranty claims or to make stolen devices appear legitimate.

Also, avoid photographing the device with notifications, contact names, addresses, or messages visible on the screen. The original box label may reveal data that doesn't need to be available to strangers.

Ideally, place the phone on a neutral surface with good lighting and no personal items in the background. Photograph the screen, the sides, the cameras, and any signs of wear. You can keep the IMEI in a private file to reference should any issues arise after the sale.

Hiding defects almost always turns a transaction into a conflict...Masking the device's condition might speed up the initial inquiry, but it usually ends in a complaint.

Disclose the actual battery capacity, scratches, marks, cracks, button malfunctions, and previous repairs. Also, mention if the screen or any other component has been replaced with a third-party part.

On an iPhone, the buyer can check battery health and view alerts about unknown components in the settings. Therefore, hiding this information rarely works for long.

An honest listing might take a few days longer to generate interest, but it reduces the likelihood of returns, accusations, and disputes on the platform. Photographing the defects also protects the seller against claims regarding damage that existed prior to shipping.

Off-platform payments pave the way for the most common scams...Scammers often try to move the transaction out of the protected environment. They claim they want to avoid fees, ask to communicate via WhatsApp, or send fake links to verify accounts and payments.

Another frequent scam involves proof of transfers that were never actually completed. With services like Pix or Bizum—depending on the country—a payment request might also appear disguised as an incoming payment.

You should only hand over the phone once the funds are confirmed in your bank account or officially held by the platform. Do not rely on screenshots, emails, or messages sent by the buyer.

For in-person transactions, choose busy locations and verify the cash before handing over the device. Avoid meeting at private homes, empty parking lots, or locations suggested at the last minute.

Documenting the sale can save you if a dispute arises later...Before wiping the phone, note down the IMEI number, which can be found by dialing *#06# in the phone app. Take a photo of the screen and keep the record.

If you have the original sales receipt, keep it safe. It helps prove the device's origin and builds trust with the buyer.

When shipping, use a tracking service and take photos of the phone, accessories, and the packing process. Keep the shipping receipt and, whenever possible, take a picture of the sealed package.

In most transactions, this evidence will never be needed. However, if an accusation arises regarding an empty box, shipping damage, or a different device being received, this proof can be decisive.

Finally, don't rush the sale. Compare listings for the same model, storage capacity, and condition. Buyback programs are faster but usually pay less. A careful presentation, a reasonable price, and a secure transaction increase your chances of a successful sale without turning an old phone into a new problem.

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