Reliable Purchase of Phones and Tablets

Always Request a Receipt and Invoice

Purchase documents are your guarantee of safety. When buying either a new or used phone or tablet from an official seller, it is essential to ask for a receipt and an invoice. These documents serve several very important functions:

• Proves the purchase and ownership. Having a purchase receipt or invoice in your name provides official proof that the device legally belongs to you. This is especially relevant if legal questions arise later regarding the device’s origin.
• Allows you to take advantage of the warranty. The warranty provided by the manufacturer or seller is only valid if you present a purchase confirmation document. Without a receipt or invoice, you cannot prove that you are the legal owner from a specific date.
• Facilitates returns or exchanges. If you decide to return or exchange the item, the seller will ask for the purchase document. Without a receipt, you may lose the right to return a quality product.
• Confirms a fair transaction. Buying a used device from an individual without any documents poses a risk – an official sales document shows that the transaction is transparent and legal.

In short, always request and take a receipt and invoice. These documents are your peace of mind for the entire period of using the device.

Buying Used Devices: Contract and Other Safety Tips

Draft a Purchase-Sale Agreement

When buying a device from a private individual, always draft a written purchase-sale agreement. It should include:

• Seller and buyer details (names, surnames, identification document numbers);
• Device brand, model, IMEI number, condition description;
• Transaction price, transfer date and location;
• A note that the seller has received the full amount for the device.

Both parties sign two copies – one for each. This is your legal safeguard in case of disputes.

Choose a Reliable Seller

Not all used device sellers are honest. Here’s how to identify a reliable one:

• Seller’s reputation. Check reviews on advertising platforms or social media.
• Transaction location and method. It is recommended to meet in a public, busy place during the day.
• Too low a price – a red flag. A very low price may indicate that the device is stolen or has hidden defects.
• Prefer official platforms. Refurbished phones with a warranty pose less risk than random advertisements.

Check the Phone Before Buying

IMEI Code Check

IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique 15-digit code that you can find by dialing *#06# or locating it on the box. Check it with your mobile operator or international IMEI registries (e.g., GSMA) to ensure that the device is not stolen or blocked.

Document and Origin Check

Ask the seller to provide the original invoice or receipt. Ensure that there are no outstanding leases or debts to the operator.

SIM Unlock Check

Test the phone with your SIM card – make sure that the device is not locked to a specific network (SIM lock) and is not blocked.

Screen Condition

Inspect the screen with a solid color background – look for burn-in, dead pixels, or uneven transparency. Check the touch sensitivity across the entire surface.

Body and Connection Inspection

Check for significant dents or cracks, the condition of the charging port and headphone jack, and signs of corrosion.

Buttons and Controls

Test all physical buttons, biometric sensors (fingerprint reader, facial recognition), call speakers, and the microphone.

Battery Condition

Check the battery health (iPhone: Settings > Battery > Battery Health; Android: reliable third-party apps) and monitor the percentage drop during inspection.

Software and Updates

Ensure that the phone has the latest updates installed and that there are no unofficial ROMs or modifications. Check if the model still receives manufacturer support.

Functionality Test

• Cameras: front and rear;
• Connectivity: calls, SMS, 4G/5G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth (if supported – also eSIM);
• Sensors: gyroscope, proximity sensor, GPS;
• Sound: music, video, call tests;
• Other elements: wireless charging, compliance with water resistance declarations;
• Memory and specifications: Settings > Storage, RAM size;
• Removal of old accounts: iCloud Activation Lock and Google FRP must be disabled.

iPhone, Samsung, and Huawei P20: Specific Aspects

Apple iPhone

• Activation Lock check (Find My iPhone must be disabled, iCloud account – removed);
• Battery health < 80% – grounds for price negotiation;
• Original parts / “Parts and Service History” (Settings > General > About) – check for reports of non-original parts;
• Accessories: charger, cable, headphones; the box’s IMEI must match the device.

Samsung (and other Android)

• Screen type and condition (Super AMOLED burn-in tests via *#0*# menu, if available for the model);
• Google FRP / Samsung account deletion (Factory Reset Protection) before transfer;
• “Knox” security status (Knox Warranty Bit must not be altered, otherwise Samsung Pay / Secure Folder may not work);
• Back glass, S-Pen (Note / S series), memory card slot – check functionality.

Huawei P20

• Google services are operational (P20 has official “Google Play”);
• Software support (EMUI 8–10; assess the status of security updates);
• Battery capacity 3400 mAh – diagnostic check;
• Camera with “Leica” optics, night mode, optical zoom (in Pro model);
• Screen (P20 – LCD, P20 Pro – OLED, potential for image burn-in);
• Front fingerprint reader and USB-C headphone adapter.

Risks of Buying from Unreliable Sources

• Stolen devices. The IMEI may later be blocked, and the phone may be confiscated.
• Unpaid (leased) phones. The operator may blacklist you.
• Blocked / locked phones. Only works with a specific network or frequency range.
• Hidden defects. Scammers may temporarily “fix” the phone before selling.
• Counterfeits (fakes). Chinese copies with poor quality screens and OS shells.
• No warranty. A private seller is not obliged to repair or accept returns unless otherwise agreed.
• Payment fraud. Money is transferred, but the item does not arrive or does not match the description.

Comparison of Purchase Channels: Where is it Safest to Buy?

Physical Stores

Advantages: Live demonstration, official warranty, consumer rights protection, you take the item home immediately.
Disadvantages: Higher prices, limited selection, returns without reason are not allowed (unless the seller provides additional conditions).

Online Stores

Advantages: Wide selection, better prices, 14-day return policy in the EU (calculated from the day after receiving the item).
Disadvantages: You cannot inspect it in person, you have to wait for delivery, and manage return logistics.

Advertisement Portals and Private Sales

Advantages: Lower price, possibility to negotiate, quick pickup.
Disadvantages: No statutory consumer protection, high risk of fraud, more time-consuming to check the device.

Mobile Network Operators

Advantages: Official new devices with warranty, installment plans, insurance options.
Disadvantages: Long-term contracts can increase the overall cost; in rare cases, the phone may be locked to a network.

Consumer Rights: Warranties, Returns, and Your Protection

2-Year Statutory Warranty

New items purchased from a company have a 24-month warranty by law. During the first 12 months, it is presumed that the defect existed from the beginning unless the seller proves otherwise.

Warranty for Used Goods

For used goods from business entities, the warranty may be shortened to 12 months if clearly communicated in advance.

14-Day Right of Withdrawal

When purchasing online in EU countries, you have the right to withdraw from the contract without reason within 14 calendar days (the period is calculated from the day after receiving the item).

Right to Conformity with Description

The seller must provide a product that matches the description; otherwise, you have the right to demand contract fulfillment, price reduction, repair, replacement, or refund.

Complaint Handling

If a dispute arises, first contact the seller in writing (or verbally if allowed). If there is no resolution – contact the Consumer Rights Protection Authority or use the European Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) platform.
Note: Consumer rights protection applies when purchasing from companies. When buying from a private individual, general civil law norms and your contract apply – making it especially important to have it.